The much-anticipated Peace Cup final unfolded on Sunday at 4:30 PM at the iconic Stade Amahoro, where APR FC showcased their dominance against Rayon Sports in a thrilling 2-0 victory.
APR FC's starting lineup featured a strong side including Ishimwe Pierre, Byiringiro Jean Gilbert, Niyomugabo Claude, Niyigena Clement, Nshimiyimana Yunussu, Nshimirimana Ismael Pitchou, Ruboneka Bosco, Lamine Bah, Mugisha Gilbert, Denis Omedi, and Djibrill Ouattara.
On the opposing side, Rayon Sports started with Ndikuriyo Patient, Serumogo Aly, Bugingo Hakim, Omar Gning, Youssou Diagne, Souleymane Daffe, Ndayishimiye Richard, Muhire Kevin, Biramahire Abeddy, Aziz Bassane, and Iraguha Hadji.
APR FC, having edged Police FC in the semifinals, kicked off the match with high intensity. Within the first two minutes, Ruboneka Bosco orchestrated two set-piece opportunities, though neither resulted in a goal. By the 5th minute, Djibrill Ouattara broke the deadlock with a spectacular solo effort and a strike that nestled perfectly in the net, putting APR FC ahead.
Building on their momentum, APR FC continued attacking with precision. Ruboneka Jean Bosco nearly doubled the lead with a ferocious strike, displaying skillful coordination with his teammates.
Rayon Sports, finalists after their semifinal triumph over Mukura VS, had their first big chance in the 22nd minute from a free kick. However, Muhire Kevin sent his attempt soaring high over the crossbar. Moments later, in the 31st minute, APR FC capitalized on another brilliant sequence as Ruboneka Jean Bosco delivered an accurate ball into the box, allowing Mugisha Gilbert to score emphatically. Rayon Sports coach Rwaka Claude responded by introducing Niyonzima Olivier Seif in place of Souleymane Daffe.
Before halftime, Rayon Sports had another opportunity from a free kick taken by Muhire Kevin. Youssou Diagne's header posed a threat, but APR FC goalkeeper Ishimwe Pierre reacted swiftly to deny them. As the second half began, Rayon Sports substituted Iraguha Hadji for Rukundo Abdoulrahman, while APR FC maintained their dominance. Niyigena Clement came close with a header that narrowly missed the goalpost.
Despite earning multiple free kicks, Rayon Sports struggled to convert their chances into goals. In the 70th minute, substitutions shifted the dynamic as APR FC brought on Niyibizi Ramadhan for Mamadou Lamine Bah, and Rayon Sports introduced Adama Bagayogo for Aziz Bassane. With a two-goal cushion, APR FC reduced their attacking intensity while staying solid at the back.
The 82nd minute featured a promising free kick from Rayon Sports' Adama Bagayogo, which Ishimwe Pierre initially saved but mishandled, giving Ndayishimiye Richard a chance. Unfortunately for Rayon Sports, this golden opportunity went unconverted. In the end, APR FC emerged victorious with a convincing 2-0 win, securing the 2025 Peace Cup title—their 14th in the tournament's history and a testament to their legacy.
The starting 11 for Rayon Sports
The starting 11 for APR FC
Djibrill Ouattara celebrates his goal
Mugisha Gilbert celebrates the victory
APR FC lifts the Peace Cup 2025