Chile (4) v (5) Rwanda

By George Thomson

RWANDA edged out Chile 5-4 to win the 2008 Community Cup in a tight encounter at Federation Square Stadium. While no team was able to open up a two-goal lead at any time, the Rwandan side deserved their win.

The game featured two of the most instantly recognisable characters of the 2008 Homeless World Cup. For Chile, the diminutive Carlos Amador Torres Garrido, or 'Charlie' as he has become known, displayed his characteristic in-your-face tenacity as he geed his teammates up before the match. For Rwanda, goalkeeper Michel Ndayisenga amused the crowd with his eccentric crab-like warm up.

Whichever way they chose to prepare for kick-off, it was Rwanda who started the game the brighter. Within 10 seconds Ally Uwimana showed off his trademark powerful shot to drive low into the bottom corner.

Within the opening few exchanges the differences in style between the teams became apparent. While Rwanda were anxious to monopolise possession and make best use of their one-man advantage in Chile's half, the South Americans were far more direct, seeking to get the ball up to striker Manolo at the earliest opportunity.

When Chile did press, they found an obdurate opponent in Rwanda's keeper Ndayisenga, whose acrobatic saves, including a double stop, kept them at bay.

It came as a surprise then, that it was a Ndayisenga fumble that allowed Chile to equalise in the third minute.

Rwanda instantly replied, regaining a 2-1 lead which they held going into the break.

The second half saw Chile fight back, Manolo's efforts bearing fruit as his cool finish tied the scores.

Again Rwanda immediately re-established their lead, Nasera Zuberi managing to nutmeg the Chilean keeper after being put through.

With a player like Charlie in the team, the Chileans were never likely to give up. The terrier-like midfielder drove his team on, and it was his powerful drive from a bouncing ball that put Chile ahead for the first time after Manolo's equaliser.

Despite their deficit, Rwanda refused to become rattled. Hussein Ntakirutimana drew them level, his shot dribbling over the line to the anguish of Chile's stranded keeper.

With the tension rising, Rwanda found their deserved winner, Zuberi the hero again as his fierce drive on the turn rose into the top corner.

At the final whistle, the Rwandan players erupted into joyous celebration. The jubilant scenes were too much for victorious manager Charles Muhizi Lwanga, who was reduced to tears.

Shortly after, and now with a broad grin on his face, he reflected on a hugely successful tournament for his team.

While delighted to have won a trophy, Lwanga was quick to emphasise Rwanda's success had not just come on the pitch. New friends had been made in both the Italy and Namibia camps, the former sharing a floor with the Rwandans at the athletes' village.

In the future, Lwanga hopes to return to the Homeless World Cup, possibly with both a men and a women's team. Rwanda had been one of the several countries in Melbourne with a mixed squad.

"We are looking into it", said Lwanga. "We think next time we need to have two teams".

Such concerns will be resolved in time. More immediately, Lwanga was excited about the men's final later in the day. He was looking forward to seeing Russia, who he thought were the best team on show in Melbourne.

Photos: Photoworx