Rwanda’s U23 national team, Amavubi, suffered a 3-0 defeat to Cameroon in the first leg of their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying tie, leaving themselves with a difficult task in the return match.
The match was played at Kigali Pelé Stadium on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, with Rwanda hoping to secure a home victory that would strengthen their chances of advancing to the next qualifying round.
The first half ended goalless, with both sides battling for control and creating attempts to break the deadlock.
Rwanda were dealt an early setback when striker Shingiro Honoré picked up an injury in the 28th minute and was replaced by Ingabire Christian.
Cameroon returned from the break with greater attacking intent and took the lead in the 63rd minute through their captain, Fergani Patrick Edzimbii.
Rwanda pushed for an equaliser and appeared to have levelled the score in the 75th minute through Niyigena Abdoul. However, the goal was disallowed after the referee ruled that there had been an infringement against the goalkeeper.
Cameroon continued to capitalise on their chances, doubling their lead in the 85th minute through substitute Rattensi Nko Ghangle.
Edzimbii struck again in the third minute of stoppage time, completing his brace and sealing a 3-0 victory for Cameroon.
The result leaves Rwanda facing an uphill battle in the second leg, where they will need a convincing victory to keep their qualification hopes alive.
The return leg is scheduled for November 17, 2026, in Cameroon, with Amavubi needing a strong performance to overturn the first-leg deficit.
