APR FC secured a 3-1 away victory over Etincelles FC in the first leg of the Peace Cup semi-finals on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at Umuganda Stadium in Rubavu, taking a commanding step toward the final.
The match carried added intensity after Etincelles FC had defeated APR FC 2-1 in their Rwanda Premier League meeting just days earlier.
APR FC responded strongly, with head coach Abderrahim Taleb making two changes to his starting lineup, introducing Niyomugabo Claude and Mugisha Gilbert, also known as “Barafinda.” Etincelles FC made one adjustment, bringing in Gakumba Innocent.
The visitors started on the front foot and broke the deadlock in the 14th minute through Mugisha Gilbert, who finished clinically after a well-timed assist from Dauda Yussif Seidu, ending his long goal drought in style.
APR FC went into halftime leading 1-0 after creating several other chances through William Togui and Sheikh Djibril Ouattara.
The Army side doubled their advantage in the 61st minute when referee Isiaq awarded a penalty after Hakim Kiwanuka was fouled inside the box. Ouattara converted confidently to make it 2-0.
Etincelles FC responded quickly, pulling one back in the 66th minute through Djabilu Ishimwe, who capitalized on a well-worked move involving Hussein Ciza and Lody Rodrigue Mwinyi.
However, APR FC restored their two-goal cushion just three minutes later. A flowing team move involving Dauda Yussif Seidu and Byiringiro Jean Gilbert “Kagege” set up Kiwanuka, whose precise cross was headed home by Ouattara for his second goal of the match.
APR FC controlled the final stages of the game, managing possession and limiting Etincelles FC’s attacking threat until the final whistle.
The result gives APR FC a strong 3-1 aggregate advantage heading into the return leg, where Etincelles FC will need a major turnaround to reach the final.
