Rwanda 1 – 1 Kenya: Another draw in another East African derby

Abdul Rwatubyaye’s fortunate 21st minute goal cancelled out Michael Olunga’s ninth minute opener as Kenya and Rwanda played to a 1-1 draw in Kigali on Sunday, another of the East African derby matches in Group E of the Qatar 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

The draw meant Kenya temporarily went to second spot with two points, pending the tie between group leaders Mali and Uganda in Kampala on Monday.

Coming into the tie after a 0-0 draw at home against Uganda, Kenya looked to start the game better with an improved attacking acumen and led in the ninth minute when Olunga rifled home from close range with his weaker right foot.

But, the home side which lost 1-0 away to Mali in the first game got back on level terms in the 21st minute. A cross from Haruna Niyonzima was headed goalward by Jacques Tuyisenge and it fortunately hit the back of Rwatubyaye, the ball changing direction and going past keeper Ian Otieno.