Rwanda have exited the 2018 World Cup qualifiers following a defeat to Libya in Kigali (17 November 2015).

 

Despite going into half time tied 1-1, following an equaliser by Jacques Tuyisenge, the final score was 3-1 in Libya’s favour.

 

Speaking after the match Amavubi Coach McKinstry said:

“Libya are to be congratulated. We knew they would be hungry... their players gave their all and came away with the victory. While we controlled large parts of the game, we still do not have the killer instinct in front of goal, and some individual mistakes allowed Libya to capitalise and ultimately cost us a victory."

"These are problems that have for a long time limited Rwanda’s ability to progress and both I and Ferwafa know that while we are moving in the right direction, it will take time to correct.” 

“In the second half, we came out looking to press hard, but an individual error helped Libya score the second goal.”

 

 

Despite going 2-1 down, the Amavubi pushed hard and made a number of efforts on the Libyan goal.

“Our team shape and passing has improved markedly over recent months, and this allowed the Amavubi to press the Libyan defence and goalkeeper a number of times. However work is still required to improve our focus and intensity."

"We also know all too well that mistakes that go unpunished in the Rwandan league are seized upon at international level.”

Libya’s final goal came in the closing minutes, benefiting from a deflection which spun the ball beyond the reach of Amavubi keeper Olivier Kwizera, when the Amavubi had thrown everything forward in an attempt to re-balance the scoresheet.

 

Asked about the players performance Coach McKinstry said:

“They are a good group of players. The best in Rwanda and the best available that I can call. That said, both Ferwafa and I are clear on the need to further develop the player pool. President Nzamwita has made clear his long term plans, including talent development. I also continue to scout the league in Rwanda, and abroad, for new talent. I would clearly also want to be able to call players like Meddie Kagere, who are scoring regularly in top leagues, but that is not within my control.”

 

On next steps, Coach McKinstry was clear:

“We will not rest, we will be back on the training pitch tomorrow - to continue our work to address the factors that we know need attention. CECAFA provides an immediate opportunity for further work with the team, with CHAN in January providing the key opportunity for our home based players to prove themselves in front of a home crowd.”

 

 

 

 

 

Match Highlights 

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