RAYON SPORT WFC CLAIMS PENALTY VICTORY AGAINST INYEMERA WFC IN THE OPENING MATCH OF THE RETURN LEG

As the Rwandan women’s football league entered the second half of the 2025–2026 season (return leg), a highly anticipated match took place on Saturday, 17 January 2026, pitting Inyemera WFC against Rayon Sport WFC. This was the first match of the return phase and was played at Inyemera WFC’s home ground.

The match began cautiously, with both teams seeking to score while avoiding conceding an early goal. Inyemera WFC tried to attack through their midfield players, while Rayon Sport WFC looked to create chances using quick balls from the wings.

In the first half, Rayon Sport WFC earned a crucial opportunity after one of their players was fouled inside Inyemera WFC’s penalty area, prompting the referee to award a penalty. Gikundiro Scholastique stepped up to take it and converted confidently, as the Inyemera WFC goalkeeper failed to stop the shot, giving Rayon Sport WFC the lead.

After conceding, Inyemera WFC pushed hard for an equalizer, increasing pressure in the closing minutes of the first half. However, Rayon Sport WFC’s defense remained solid, and the first half ended with Rayon Sport WFC leading 1–0.

The second half saw Inyemera WFC come out with renewed energy, dominating possession and continuously attacking Rayon Sport WFC’s goal in search of an equalizer. Despite creating several chances, they failed to capitalize, either due to poor finishing or the excellent performance of Rayon Sport WFC’s defenders and goalkeeper.

Rayon Sport WFC focused on protecting their lead, relying on experience and strong teamwork. Although both teams had chances in the second half, no additional goals were scored before the final whistle.

The head coach of Rayon Sport WFC said:

> “We are happy with the victory and the three points. The players executed our instructions well, and this win boosts our confidence.”

The head coach of Inyemera WFC said:

> “We conceded only one goal from a penalty, but our performance was good. We must correct our mistakes and prepare for the upcoming matches.”

The match ended with Rayon Sport WFC defeating Inyemera WFC 1–0, earning Gikundiro’s side three important points in the opening game of the return leg. This victory gave Rayon Sport WFC confidence to continue competing for top positions in the league table, while Inyemera WFC will need to address their shortcomings in future matches.

Written by Igiraneza Migisha Janviére