Mapinduzi Cup: Rupia scores and assists to lead Singida into tournament semifinals

Kenyan striker Elvis Rupia scored one and assisted the other of his side’s goals as Singida Fountain Gate rallied from behind to beat Azam FC 2-1 in the first of Monday’s Mapinduzi Cup quarter finals played at Amaan Complex Stadium in Zanzibar.

Following a bright start by Azam FC, that also saw them take the lead deep into first half stoppage time thanks to a powerful Alassane Diao header, Rupia was once again on target for Singida when he leveled matters shortly after the hour mark.

The former Kenya Police striker was at the back end of a fancy team move by Singida - and one that also involved fellow countryman Duke Abuya in the build-up - as he applied a cheeky right foot to Haji Kyombo’s delivery from the right and past Foba Masudi in goal.

The goal was his fourth in the ongoing competition, and puts him alongside the aforementioned Diao as the tournament top goalscorers.

Mapinduzi Cup: Rupia nets brace for Singida in JKU humbling

Moments later - in the 65th minute - scorer turned provider when from an opposing corner, Singida went out for a quick counter-attack, which ultimately resulted in Rupia setting up Kyombo for the game-clinching header.

For his performances, Kyombo was awarded the man of the match award, even as Singida booked their place into the cup semifinals set to take place on 10 January.

On Sunday, Mlandege FC and Rwanda’s APR qualified for the semifinals after edging out KVZ SC and Young Africans respectively.

Simba SC take on Jamhuri SC in the last quarter-final matchup.