Gauthier Mankenda registered his fourth assist of the season as FC Riga powered past Super Nova with a commanding 5-1 away victory on Matchday 10 of the Latvian Higher League.
The Congolese forward continued his fine form in the absence of fellow countryman Glody Ngonda Muzinga, who has been sidelined for several matches.
Mankenda made his presence felt once again, setting up the team’s second goal in the 36th minute, reinforcing his growing reputation as a key creative force in Riga’s attacking line.
Wednesday’s result marked FC Riga’s fourth win in a row and extended their unbeaten run to six games, a streak that includes five victories.
With only one defeat so far this season, the reigning champions are showing both consistency and ambition in their bid to defend the title.
Mankenda, who has now made six appearances this campaign, is proving instrumental in the team’s early success.
His vision and composure in the final third have been vital assets for a Riga side determined to maintain its edge over city rivals Riga FS in what is shaping up to be another closely contested title race.
Currently, FC Riga sit atop the table with 21 points, though their position could be temporarily challenged depending on the outcome of Riga FS’s upcoming fixture.
The reigning champions, however, recently claimed a crucial victory over their local adversaries, a result that may prove pivotal as the season unfolds.
Head coach Tomislav Stipić’s squad has displayed cohesion and intensity in recent weeks, building momentum at a crucial stage of the season.
With fixtures coming thick and fast, their next challenge will be against Auda on Monday, May 5, in Matchday 11 — another opportunity to reinforce their lead at the summit.
FC Riga’s ambitions remain clear: retain the championship and fend off the growing threat from other contenders.
With players like Mankenda stepping up in key moments, the defending champions are proving they have both the depth and determination required to go the distance once again.
