Rwanda is set to host the expanded FIFA Series 2026 in Kigali from March 26 to 31, offering the national team, Amavubi, a timely chance to reconnect with supporters after a run of underwhelming results.
Matches will be played at Amahoro Stadium and Kigali Pelé Stadium, with teams divided into two groups. Group A features Rwanda, Kenya, Estonia and Grenada, while Group B includes Tanzania, Aruba, Macau and Liechtenstein.
What is the FIFA Series?
The FIFA Series is an international friendly competition designed to bring together national teams from different confederations that rarely face each other. The initiative aims to boost global football development and competitiveness.
The 2026 edition will involve 48 national teams—nearly a quarter of FIFA’s 211 members—competing across 12 groups of four teams each. Rwanda will host two of those groups.
Amavubi’s preparations under a new coach
Rwanda will open their campaign against Grenada on March 27 at Amahoro Stadium.
The FERWAFA has already released a provisional squad, marking the first tournament under new head coach Stephen Constantine, who has called up 31 players.
The squad features a mix of returning players and new faces, including Europe-based talents such as Sven Kalisa (FC Etzella Ettelbruck), and forwards like Joy Slayd Mickels (FK Karvan), Karl Matteo Ndayishimiye (KVC Wilrijk), Leroy Jacques Mickels (Zira FC), and Johan Marvin Kury (AC Bellinzona).
Young prospects, including Obed Uwumukiza and Jean Rene Uwineza, have also been handed opportunities to impress.
A crucial moment to rebuild confidence
The tournament comes at a critical time for Amavubi, who are seeking to bounce back from disappointing campaigns in 2025.
Rwanda failed to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after falling short in a group that included Nigeria, Benin and Libya—losses that dampened fan morale.
Similarly, despite a promising start in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers with a 2-0 win over South Africa in late 2023, inconsistent results in 2024 saw their qualification hopes fade.
Against this backdrop, the FIFA Series presents more than just friendly matches—it is an opportunity to restore belief.
Victories against teams like Estonia or Grenada, especially on home soil at the newly renovated Amahoro Stadium, could help rebuild trust and excitement among fans.
Rwanda ready to deliver as host
Rwanda has stepped up preparations across infrastructure, logistics and fan engagement to host the tournament.
Amahoro Stadium, which will host Group A matches, has undergone renovations to meet FIFA standards. Kigali Pelé Stadium, set to host Group B, has also been upgraded, including the installation of modern digital screens.
Authorities have also addressed recent electricity challenges to ensure night matches proceed smoothly.
To boost attendance, FERWAFA has introduced affordable ticketing options and digital purchasing platforms. Standard tickets are priced at RWF 2,000, while VIP seats range from RWF 5,000 to RWF 30,000, with fans able to purchase via mobile platforms or online.
A chance to reconnect
For Amavubi, the FIFA Series is more than a sporting event—it is a test of progress and a chance to reconnect with fans.
With home support, a refreshed squad, and a new technical direction, Rwanda now faces a defining moment: turning opportunity into renewed national pride.
