Azam FC continued their impressive run in the NBC Premier League with a resounding 4-2 victory against hosts Kagera Sugar in an action-packed match held on April 19, 2025, at Kaitaba Stadium in Kagera Region.
The match kicked off with both teams showing attacking intent within the first 24 minutes. Kagera Sugar and Azam FC exchanged aggressive plays, each side determined to break the deadlock while maintaining a solid defense.
The home side drew first blood in the 26th minute through Hijjah Shamte, who capitalized on a defensive lapse by Azam to slot in the opener, sending home fans into celebration. But Azam responded before the break, leveling the score in the 42nd minute with a fine strike from Lusajo Mwaikenda. The first half ended 1-1, setting the stage for an intense second half.
Azam returned with renewed energy and took the lead just 13 minutes into the second half, with Idd Nado finding the back of the net in the 58th minute. However, their joy was short-lived as Kassim Feka equalized for Kagera Sugar just three minutes later, keeping the hosts in the game at 2-2.
The turning point came in the 83rd minute when a Kagera Sugar defender inadvertently scored an own goal, handing Azam a crucial 3-2 advantage. Riding on that momentum, the visitors sealed their triumph four minutes later, courtesy of a powerful finish from Jhonier Blanco in the 87th minute.
Azam’s win not only gave them bragging rights over Kagera Sugar—having defeated them both home and away this season—but also solidified their position in the league standings. With 54 points from 27 matches, Azam sit third on the table, maintaining pressure on the top two teams.
In stark contrast, the defeat deepened Kagera Sugar’s struggles. The team remains in the relegation zone, sitting 15th with just 22 points from 27 matches. With the season nearing its climax, Kagera Sugar will need a drastic turnaround to avoid the drop.
Azam’s victory underscores their attacking depth and resilience, while Kagera Sugar must regroup quickly to salvage their survival hopes in the top flight.