Former Uganda Cranes captain Emmanuel Okwi showcased his prowess on Wednesday, January 15, as AS Kigali fell 3-2 to Etincelles FC in a thrilling first-leg clash of the Peace Cup 2025 second round at the Kigali Pele Stadium.
Okwi, a seasoned forward with a reputation for delivering in key moments, put AS Kigali in the lead with a stunning eighth-minute strike.
However, Etincelles responded swiftly through Hussein Ciza Mugabo, who equalized just five minutes later.
A foul on Ciza led to a penalty that Sadjat Niyonkuru converted with precision, giving the visitors a 2-1 lead.
Despite Okwi’s efforts to rally his team, AS Kigali struggled to contain Etincelles’ relentless attacks. Ismail Nizigiyimana extended the visitors’ lead with a spectacular long-range effort, making it 3-1 before halftime.
AS Kigali showed resilience in the second half, with substitute Saidi Abubakar reducing the deficit in the 61st minute.
Okwi, along with his teammates, pressed hard for an equalizer, but Etincelles’ defense remained impenetrable.
Okwi’s influence on the game was evident throughout, as he created chances and kept the Etincelles defense on high alert. However, AS Kigali’s missed opportunities, including a late chance in the 80th minute, proved costly.
The defeat leaves AS Kigali with a tough task ahead as they prepare for the second leg at Umuganda Stadium on January 21.
