Young Africans defeat Rayon Sports in high profile East African friendly

Tanzanian champions Young Africans overcame an early own goal to defeat hosts and Rwandan runners-up Rayon Sports 3-1 in an international friendly match played on Friday at the Amahoro Stadium in Kigali.

Loan signing Andy Boyeli leveled the game in the first half for Yanga before Pacôme Zouzoua put the Citizens into the lead just before halftime. Hosts Rayon Sports took the lead through a shocking moment in the opening minute when Yanga defender Aziz Andabwile’s backpass surprised his goalkeeper Djigui Diarra and went past the Malian shot stopper for an own goal.

But it was playmaker Zouzoua who showed why he wears the #10 on his shirt with a defense-splitting pass to Boyeli and the Congolese striker, brought in on loan from South African club Sekhukhune United, produced a poacher’s finish. Zouzoua then fired a finish into the top corner past Rayon Sports keeper Drisa Kouyaté to give Yanga the advantage.

Defender Mwamnyeto headed in a corner kick late to complete the 3-1 victory for the visitors. A month still remains until competitive football starts for the Ligi Kuu Bara champions. Yanga will continue preseason preparations ahead of Tanzania’s Community Shield when they face Azam FC on September 11 as well as the qualifying stages of the CAF Champions League, where they will face Angolan runners-up Wiliete with the first leg on September 20.