Marines FC earned a vital point after a 1-1 draw with league leaders Al Hilal SC in Matchday 26 of the Rwanda Premier League at Kigali Pelé Stadium on Monday, April 6, 2026.
Al Hilal SC came into the game unbeaten in their last three league matches, but Marines FC showed resilience to claim a second consecutive draw against the top team this season.
Mubarak Nizeyimana put Marines ahead in the 26th minute with a precise finish from a Ndombe Menayame assist, only for Emmanuel Flomo to equalize for Al Hilal in the 30th minute following a defensive lapse.
Both teams pressed for the winner, with Marines’ Mbonyumwami Taiba and Nyarugabo Moise testing Al Hilal’s defense, while Al Hilal came close through Kindness Cole, whose 87th-minute strike was brilliantly saved by Marines goalkeeper Irambona Vally.
The game ended in a stalemate, keeping Al Hilal SC at the top of the table while Marines FC climbed to eighth with 37 points, level with Bugesera FC but ahead on goal difference.
Marines FC’s performance underscores their growing confidence in challenging higher-ranked teams, signaling a competitive finish to the season.
