Bugesera FC will face a significant setback in their season-defining clash against Etoile de l’Est as Primus National League joint top scorer Elijah Ani will miss the crucial encounter. Ani’s absence comes as a result of accumulated yellow cards, rendering him ineligible for the match set for Saturday, May 11, at Ngoma Stadium.
Ani, who has been a key player for Bugesera FC, boasting 15 goals in 24 games, will be sorely missed in this high-stakes fixture. The Nigerian forward received yellow cards during matches against APR on February 18, Marines FC on April 5, and most recently, during Bugesera’s draw with Muhazi United on May 4. As a result of these infractions, he is mandated to serve a one-game suspension.
For coach Francis Haringingo, Ani’s absence poses a significant challenge, especially considering the implications of the match. Failure to secure a victory in Ngoma could lead to Bugesera FC’s relegation to the second division. However, Ani remains optimistic about his team’s prospects, expressing confidence in his fellow players to rise to the occasion.
“It’s sad I have three yellow cards and I won’t feature in our last game. However, I have a strong belief that the others can step up and get the job done,” Ani shared with Times Sport.
Bugesera FC currently sits in 15th place in the league table. Their survival hinges on securing a win against Etoile de l’Est and hoping for concurrent defeats for Sunrise, Etincelles, and Gorilla to avoid relegation.
