Musanze FC 1-1 Al Merreikh – Second-Half Drama at Mburabuturo

On February 13, 2026, Musanze FC hosted Sudanese powerhouse Al Merreikh in a pulsating Rwandan National League encounter. The match at Mburabuturo Stadium ended 1-1 after a tense second half, with both teams sharing the spoils.

The opening period was cagey, with Al Merreikh dominating possession but struggling to break down a compact Musanze defense. The breakthrough came for the visitors in the 41st minute when striker Mudathir Yahya latched onto a through ball and slotted past home goalkeeper Fiston Mwizerwa. Al Merreikh took that 1-0 lead into the break.

Musanze emerged with renewed energy after halftime. Coach Jimmy Muhizi introduced fresh legs, and the tactical shift paid off. In the 68th minute, winger Emmanuel Havugimana cut inside from the left and unleashed a curling shot that beat Al Merreikh keeper Akram El-Hadi at his near post. The home crowd erupted, and Musanze pushed for a winner, but Al Merreikh’s defense – marshalled by veteran captain Salif Koulibaly – held firm.

Match Highlights

• 41' – Goal: Mudathir Yahya (Al Merreikh) – clinical finish from 12 yards.
• 68' – Goal: Emmanuel Havugimana (Musanze) – stunning solo effort.
• 75' – Red Card: Musanze defender Patrick Niyonzima saw a second yellow for a reckless challenge, forcing his team to finish with ten men.
• 89' – Save: Fiston Mwizerwa denied a powerful header from Al Merreikh substitute Osman Mansour to preserve the draw.

The result keeps Al Merreikh in fourth place with 28 points, while Musanze continue their push for a top-half finish, now sitting ninth with 18 points. Both sides showed character, and fans left Mburabuturo entertained by a well-fought contest.