Rwanda’s national under-15 football team is preparing to make its first appearance at a FIFA global tournament for players in this age group, with the competition scheduled to take place in Baku, Azerbaijan, from October 24 to 30, 2026.
The tournament will bring together teams representing 191 FIFA member associations, giving young players an opportunity to compete internationally, experience different styles of football and develop their skills.
A different format for young players
Unlike conventional football competitions, the tournament will feature eight players per team on the pitch instead of 11. Each match will last 40 minutes, divided into two 20-minute halves.
FIFA expects around 3,000 participants, including players, coaches and officials, to take part in the event.
The format is designed to give young footballers more opportunities to play, learn and demonstrate their abilities. After the group stage, teams will be placed into different competition tiers based on their performances, ensuring every team continues playing until the final day.
FIFA’s Chief of Global Football Development, Arsène Wenger, said: “Talent is everywhere, but opportunities to compete internationally are not equal.”
The governing body says the tournament will help talented young players gain international experience early in their careers while enabling countries to identify and nurture prospects who could become leading players in the future.
The U-15 competition will become an annual event. In 2027, the tournament will feature girls’ teams, while separate boys’ and girls’ competitions are planned from 2028.
Constantine urges Rwanda’s youngsters to make the most of the opportunity
On October 20, 2026, Rwanda head coach Stephen Constantine visited the team at its training camp, urging the players to maintain discipline, behave professionally and use the tournament to improve their game.
He reminded them that they would be representing Rwanda and its people, encouraging them to conduct themselves well and learn from teams with greater international experience.
The Rwanda Football Federation (FERWAFA) confirmed that the country will be represented by 14 players under head coach Thierry Hitimana.
Rwanda have been drawn in Group Y alongside Côte d’Ivoire, Vanuatu, Albania, Turks and Caicos Islands, and Mauritania.
The Amavubi U-15 team will open their group-stage campaign against Côte d’Ivoire on October 24. They will face Vanuatu and Albania on October 25 before completing their group fixtures against Turks and Caicos Islands and Mauritania on October 26.
For Rwanda, the tournament offers an important opportunity to expose young players to international competition and help prepare them for potential future roles in the senior national team.
