Mauritius will be eyeing their second 2017 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier win when they host Rwanda at the Stade Anjalay in Belle Vue Maurel on Saturday.

Kick-off is at 14h00 (CAT).

Les Dodos managed to hold Kenya to a goalless draw in their last competitive game away in the 2018 FIFA World Cup qualification (CAF) first round second-leg clash in October 2015.

However, Mauritius had suffered a 5-2 defeat to the Harambee Stars of Kenya at home in the first-leg. Andy Sophie and Jonathan Bru hit the back of the net for the home side.

French-Mauritian midfielder Kevin Bru has been included in the Les Dodos squad that will take on Rwanda this weekend by the head coach Joe Tshupula.

The 27-year-old central midfielder, who is currently in the books of English Championship side Ipswich Town, is a former France Under-19 international.

Despite losing 7-1 to Ghana in their first Group H game away, Mauritius bounced back and shocked Mozambique 1-0 at home – thanks to Fabien Pithia’s goal.

Les Dodos are placed third on the qualification Group standings with three points. A win over Rwanda will see them move to the second spot.

Meanwhile, Rwanda will be out to cement their second spot when they lock horns with Mauritius on Saturday afternoon.

Amavubi were knocked of the 2016 African Nations Championships (CHAN) quarter-finals by the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The tournament hosts lost 2-1 on extra-time.

The East African side were also beaten 3-2 on aggregate by Libya in the 2018 FIFA World Cup qualification (CAF) second round in November 2015.

Having been boosted by the arrival of six of their professional players in camp this week, Amavubi head coach Johnny McKinstry also inked a two-year extension.

Europe-based Saloman Nirisarike, Quentin Rushenguziminega and Elias Uzamukunda have been deemed fit ahead of the clash with Mauritius.

Rwanda are currently placed second on Group H standings – having beaten Mozambique 1-0 away and suffered a 1-0 home defeat to group leaders Ghana – who are on nine points.

Referee Lazard Tsiba from Congo-Brazzaville will be in charge of the encounter between Les Dodos of Mauritius and Rwanda’s Amavubi.

The return leg will be played at the Amahoro Stadium in Kigali on Tuesday afternoon.

Collins Okinyo

Ex- CAF Media Expert. An expert on African football with over 15 years experience ,always with an ear to the ground with indepth knowledge of the game. I have worked for top publications including 7 years at www.supersport.com until i founded www.soka25east.com to quench the thirst of football lovers across the continent. I have trained young upcoming journalists who are now a voice in African football.I have covered World Cup,AFCON,CHAN,Champions League,Confederations Cup,Cecafa,Cosafa,Wafu and many other football tournaments across the World. Founder Football Africa Arena(FAA),Founder www.afrisportdigital.com