APR and Amavubi Stars defender cum midfielder Mutesa Mafisango dropped

Against Cameroon, in which he
was rated as Amavubi Stars’ best performer.

By HAMZA NKUUTU

 
APR and Amavubi Stars defender cum midfielder Mutesa Mafisango has been left out of the tentative squad to face Liberia next month, in the Africa Nations Cup-Ghana 2008 qualifier, due to indiscipline. The 24-year old star, of Congolese origin, has vanished, after he trained only once with his team mates since last month’s 0-3 loss to Cameroon in the opening qualifier.

The former TP Mezembe player had just been integrated in the national team after impressing in his short spell with the military side. He made his debut last month in an international friendly against Uganda and his first competitive game was against Cameroon, in which he was rated as Amavubi Stars’ best performer.

The lanky defender, had already become an instant fans’ darling on a few occasions he donned the national team colors.

Reliable sources attribute his absence from the team’s camp to a money row with the local football governing body, Ferwafa. However, this has been rubbished by the federation officials.

“If he has any problem with the federation, does that stop him from training as we sort it out. Does absconding from the team’s training camp help solve the problem?” wondered a high placed Ferwafa official, who too confirmed his exclusion.

Coach Michael Nees was not happy with the player’s behavior, especially at a time when Amavubi are preparing for a must-win game away to Liberia.

He said, “I don’t know where he is and I don’t know why he has reported for training with his team mates. He came once for training and hasn’t returned since.

“I am his biggest support; I brought him on the team. He is an excellent footballer who can even play professional football in Europe; however, I am disappointed with his attitude.”

The German coach praised the tint-haired star’s performance in the last two months but noted, “It’s sad for him, for the team but not for me and if he decides to do what he has done, then it is very unfortunate for him and Rwandan football.”

Ness said that he would only prefer to work with players who have a vision; and are willing to exhibit exemplary discipline.”

Nees, was however grateful to Manfred Kizito’s regained performance over the last two months.

“Manfred, oh, he’s fantastic, he’s performing extremely well and I am totally satisfied with whatever he’s doing at the moment.” He noted.