The match was played at Estadio Nacional de Cabo Verde, where Rwanda came from behind to claim all three points and move to the top of Group K with six points, ahead of Mali’s match against Liberia.
Cape Verde started strongly and created early pressure, with João Paulo Moreira Fernandes among the players threatening the Rwandan defence during the opening 10 minutes.
Rwanda created a promising opportunity in the 15th minute when Leroy Jacques Mickels found Niyomugabo Claude. However, his delivery into the box failed to find Biramahire Abeddy and the other Rwandan attackers.
Rwanda were dealt a blow when midfielder Mugisha Bonheur received a yellow card. Having already been booked in the previous match, he will miss Rwanda’s next qualifier against Mali through suspension.
Cape Verde eventually broke the deadlock in the 40th minute. Gilson Tavares found the back of the net after being set up by Ryan Mendes to give the hosts a 1-0 lead.
Rwanda, however, responded just before half-time. In the second minute of stoppage time, a corner kick created confusion inside the Cape Verde penalty area. Mutsinzi Ange Jimmy brought the ball down with his chest before it fell to Niyomugabo Claude, who calmly finished to level the score at 1-1.
Rwanda returned for the second half with a change in attack, as coach Stephen Constantine replaced Biramahire Abeddy with Iradukunda Elia Tatou. The substitution immediately paid off.
In the 52nd minute, Elia Tatou completed Rwanda’s comeback by scoring the second goal after receiving a delivery from Joy Lance Mickels.
Cape Verde pushed forward in search of an equaliser and applied sustained pressure on the Rwandan defence, but the Amavubi held firm until the final whistle.
The 2-1 victory gives Rwanda a perfect six points from their opening two matches and puts them at the top of Group K, although the standings could change depending on the outcome of Mali’s fixture against Liberia.
The result represents an important step for Rwanda in their bid to qualify for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, which will be jointly hosted by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda.
Rwanda Secure Vital 2-1 Victory Over Cape Verde in AFCON 2027 Qualifier