Urumuri FC And National FC Share Spoils In Friendly Clash

Urumuri FC welcomed National FC to the Saint Annibale Stadium on 20 April 2025 for an early morning friendly that ended in a 1-1 draw. The match, which kicked off at 7:00 am, showcased a competitive spirit from both sides, with Urumuri FC managing to equalise after conceding an early goal.

Urumuri FC lined up in a 4-3-3 formation, designed to provide a solid defensive base while allowing for attacking flair. Junior H took his place in goal, shielded by a back four comprising Jean-Pierre Dunia on the right, Pitchi H and Nkanika Emmanuel as central defenders, and Cyusa Hussein on the left. The midfield trio featured Dusabimana Fulgence on the right, Manzi Alcade in the centre, and Mugisha Ilene on the left, providing both creativity and support to the forward line. Up front, Ishaala Buregeza and Rutanga Jean-De-Dieu flanked striker NSHIMIYIMANA Vedaste, who was tasked with leading the attack. The substitutes for Urumuri FC included Jalus G, Habimana Honore, Robert Kitinga, and NSHIMIYEMUNGU Bakashika.

The match began with a swift blow to Urumuri FC's ambitions as National FC struck first, scoring in the 4th minute with a powerful right-footed effort from outside the box. This early setback forced Urumuri FC to regroup and push for an equaliser, but they struggled to find their rhythm in the opening exchanges.

As the first half progressed, Urumuri FC began to assert themselves, creating several chances but failing to convert. The half concluded with the scoreline at 1-0 in favour of National FC, prompting Urumuri FC to make a tactical change at the break. Jalus G replaced Jean-Pierre Dunia, adding fresh legs to the defence.

The second half saw Urumuri FC come out with renewed energy. Just two minutes after the restart, Habimana Honore was introduced for Rutanga Jean-De-Dieu, followed shortly by Robert Kitinga coming on for NSHIMIYIMANA Vedaste in the 49th minute. These substitutions aimed to inject more dynamism into the Urumuri attack.

In the 53rd minute, NSHIMIYEMUNGU Bakashika replaced Mugisha Ilene, further altering the midfield dynamic. Urumuri FC's persistence paid off in the 64th minute when Robert Kitinga found the back of the net, scoring with his right foot from inside the box after a well-placed header assist from Habimana Honore. This goal not only levelled the match but also shifted the momentum firmly in Urumuri FC's favour.

With the score now at 1-1, both teams pushed for a winner, but neither could find the decisive goal as the match drew to a close. The referee, Shumbusho, officiated the match with commendable authority, ensuring a fair contest throughout.

In the end, both Urumuri FC and National FC left the pitch with a sense of accomplishment, having showcased their talents in a tightly contested friendly. The draw served as a valuable opportunity for both teams to assess their strengths and areas for improvement as they look ahead to their respective campaigns.