The hosts secured a convincing 3-1 win over South Sudan’s Jamus SC at Kigali Pele Stadium, while three-time champions Gor Mahia edged Sudan’s Al Hilal SC 8-7 on penalties after the two teams played to a 1-1 draw.
The victory keeps Rayon Sports’ hopes of lifting the regional title on home soil alive as they head into Friday’s final at Amahoro Stadium.
Francis Haringingo’s side continued their impressive run in the tournament, making it four wins from four matches.
Rayon Sports took control of the second semi-final early, with Akbar Muderi opening the scoring in the 17th minute after capitalising on a defensive lapse.
Jamus SC responded with spells of possession but struggled to break through Rayon’s disciplined backline, while goalkeeper Dande Junior produced a crucial save before halftime to preserve the lead.
The Blues doubled their advantage in the 59th minute when 19-year-old Ibrahim Mansouru Djingarey finished calmly to send the home supporters into celebration.
Jamus pulled one back through substitute Diallo Bandiougou in the 70th minute after taking advantage of a defensive mistake, briefly reviving their hopes.
However, substitute Gloire Ngongo Tambwe put the result beyond doubt with two minutes remaining, slotting home Rayon’s third goal to seal a deserved 3-1 victory.
Speaking after the match, Rayon Sports head coach Francis Haringingo said his team is now focused on going all the way.
“I am happy that we have won all our four matches played in the tournament and this also gives us good preparations ahead of the new season,” he said.
“After reaching the final, our objective is to win the trophy.”
Earlier in the day, Gor Mahia overcame a resilient Al Hilal side in a dramatic first semi-final.
Steven Ebuela’s own goal handed the Kenyan champions the lead in the 34th minute before Ansumana Samura equalised for Al Hilal 10 minutes later.
Neither side could find a winner during regulation or extra time despite Gor Mahia playing with 10 men after Ebenezer Ocran was sent off for a second bookable offence.
The Kenyan side eventually prevailed 8-7 in the penalty shootout to book their place in the final.
Gor Mahia head coach Charles Akonnor praised his players for overcoming one of the tournament favourites.
“I thank the players for playing their hearts out and winning against a strong Al Hilal team,” he said.
Friday’s final at Amahoro Stadium promises a thrilling contest between two of East Africa’s biggest clubs, with the winners set to walk away with the tournament’s top prize of $30,000 (about Rwf 44 million). The runners-up will receive $20,000 (Rwf 29 million), while the third-placed team will earn $10,000 (Rwf 15 million).
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