APR FC Closes Gap on Rayon Sports as Title Race Heats Up

On Sunday, March 2, 2025, Kigali Pelé Stadium hosted two crucial fixtures on Matchday 19 of the Rwanda Premier League. Rayon Sports and Gasogi United played to a goalless draw in the first match, while APR FC secured a dominant 3-1 victory over Police FC in the second game, tightening the race for the league title. Rayon Sports, the league leaders, came into the match seeking a win to extend their lead at the top of the table. Despite creating several clear-cut chances, their forwards, including Biramahire Abeddy and Aziz Bassane, struggled to convert. Gasogi United defended resolutely, with their goalkeeper making key saves to deny Rayon Sports an opening goal. The second half saw both teams make substitutions in search of a breakthrough. Rayon Sports brought on Rukundo Abdalahman for Adama Bagayoko, while Gasogi United introduced Ndikumana Danny and Ngarambe Sadjadi. However, despite the tactical changes, neither side managed to find the back of the net, and the match ended 0-0. This result marked Rayon Sports’ second consecutive draw following their stalemate against Musanze. While they remain at the top of the table with 42 points, their inability to secure victories in recent matches has left the title race wide open. In the second match of the day, APR FC delivered a commanding performance against Police FC, securing a 3-1 win. The defending champions started strongly, breaking the deadlock in the 7th minute when Hakim Kiwanuka capitalized on a defensive error to put APR FC ahead. Police FC attempted to respond, with Mugisha Didier, Hakizimana Muhadjili, and Byiringiro Lague linking up well in attack. However, APR FC’s defense stood firm, preventing them from finding an equalizer before halftime. The second half began with APR FC continuing their dominance. Just a minute after the restart, Clement Niyigena delivered a precise cross that found Djibril Ouattara, who made no mistake in doubling the lead. Moments later, Yakubu Issah fouled Denis Omedi inside the penalty area, leading to a spot-kick that Ouattara confidently converted for his second goal of the match. Police FC managed to pull one back in the 90th minute through Henry Msanga, who unleashed a powerful shot past APR FC’s goalkeeper Ishimwe Pierre. In stoppage time, Police FC had a chance to reduce the deficit further when they were awarded a penalty, but Ishimwe Pierre made a crucial save from Mugisha Didier’s effort. With this victory, APR FC moved to 39 points, just two behind Rayon Sports. Their strong form in recent weeks has significantly increased pressure on the league leaders, making the final stretch of the season even more competitive. Rayon Sports will face Police FC in their next match, a must-win game to maintain their position at the top. Meanwhile, APR FC will look to build on their momentum as they continue their pursuit of the championship. As the season progresses, every match becomes crucial in determining the next champion of the Rwanda Premier League. With only a few points separating the top teams, the title race promises an exciting and unpredictable finish. Images Capturing Key Moments from Rayon Sports’ Draw Against Gasogi United