Group “A” leaders, the Wasps of Rwanda, return to Amahoro Stadium, Kigali today (Wednesday 20), three days after the shock 1-0 triumph over west African giant Ivory Coast in the Championship of African Nations (CHAN 2016) opener, to face Gabon test.

A win for the Johnny McKinstry’s side will book them a spot in the quarterfinals – Gabon on the other hand will be seeking to put their campaign back on track after a barren draw against Morocco in their first group “A” match.

The tournament has thus far enjoyed massive crowd support across all the four stadiums, and the Coach is banking on the home support to push them past the Les Pantheres this evening.

“The hard fought victory over Ivory Coast on Saturday has given the players a good confidence boost, and the attendance and praise of his Excellency, President Kagame has only added further to this,” McKinstry told FERWAFA.

“We know however that Gabon will be very difficult opponent, they are playing for their place in the tournament – as anything short of a win leave them exposed to early exit. As such we have to be at our best to get a result,”

The Wasps boast a superior record over Les Panthers in the last three encounters, winning twice and losing once – the Coach however is leaving all his options open heading into the tie.

“The players are fully aware what a win would mean for Rwanda. We needs two more points to move into the quarters, so a win will see us qualify. That being said, should it not go as we want, we will still be well placed to qualify in our final game, but make no mistake, everyone will be doing their most to seal our progress against Gabon.” He concluded.

Rwanda hero Emery Bayisenge who netted the winner against Ivory Coast and skipper Jacques Tuyisenge who recently signed for Kenyan side Gor Mahia are expected to start this evening.

In another group “A” match later today, Ivory Coast will take on Morocco.

@bonfaceosano

Bonface Osano

African Football Writer contributing @Soka25east | Commentator; appeared on @MySoccerAfrica, @KweseSports, @ntvkenya, others | Keen follower of African Football. E-mail: bonfaceosano@gmail.com