On Saturday, May 10, 2025, APR FC hosted Amagaju FC in the 27th matchday of the 2024-25 Rwanda Premier League, delivering a standout performance. APR FC stepped onto the pitch determined to secure the maximum three points and reclaim the top spot from their title rivals, Rayon Sports.
The starting lineup for APR FC featured key players Ishimwe Pierre, Niyigena Clement, Niyomugabo Claude, Nshimiyimana Yumusu, Byiringiro Jean Gilbert, Nshimirimana Ismail, Mahamadou Lamine Bah, Ruboneka Jean Bosco, Denis Omedi, Mugisha Gilbert, and Cheik Dibril Ouattra.
Meanwhile, Amagaju FC deployed Twagirumukiza Clement, Masudi Narcisse, Abdel Matumona Wakonda, Tuyishime Emmanuel, Bizimana Iphi Hadji, Dusabe Jean Claude, Nkurunziza Seth, Sebagenzi Cyrille, Twizeyimana Innocent, Richald Mapoli, and Ndayishimiye Eduard as their starting XI.
The match began with APR FC setting a high tempo, striving for an early advantage. In the third minute, Cheik Djbril Ouattra showcased his attacking prowess but was thwarted by Amagaju defender Abdel Matumona Wakonda. Moments later, in the seventh minute, Mahamadou Lamine Bah came close to scoring but sent his shot just over the bar.
By the 10th minute, APR FC broke the deadlock when Burkina Faso international Cheik Djbril Ouattra slotted home a superb goal, thanks to a precise assist from Ruboneka Jean Bosco.
Buoyed by their strong start, APR continued to push for a second goal. In the 15th minute, Mugisha Gilbert found the back of the net, only for the referee to rule it out due to a prior foul.
Amagaju FC fought back with a chance of their own, as Richald Mapoli’s shot narrowly missed the target. Despite their attempts, the first half ended with APR FC holding onto a 1-0 lead.
Cheik Djbril Ouattra celebrates after scoring the opening goal for APR FC.
The first half ended 1-0 in favor of APR FC.
In the second half, Amagaju FC returned with determination, seeking an equalizer, but APR FC’s defense remained solid. In the 52nd minute, APR FC earned a free kick, but Mugisha Gilbert’s attempt hit the defensive wall, denying them another opportunity to extend their lead.
The breakthrough came in the 62nd minute when Gilbert broke into Amagaju’s penalty area. A handball from an Amagaju defender led to a clear penalty, which Ugandan international Denis Omedi confidently converted, doubling APR FC's lead to 2-0.
Amagaju FC kept fighting and got their reward in the 85th minute when Eduard Ndayishimiye capitalized on an opportunity to pull one back for his team, creating a tense finish as APR FC worked to protect their lead.
In the dying moments of added time (90+3), APR FC sealed their victory in style. A clever pass from Hakim Kiwanuka found Mugiraneza Frodouard, who struck home the third goal for APR FC. The match concluded with a final score of 3-1 in favor of APR FC.
The win propelled APR FC back to the top of the 2024-25 Rwanda Premier League standings with 58 points. Meanwhile, Amagaju FC remained entangled in the relegation battle, holding onto 29 points.
APR FC celebrates their commanding 3-1 triumph over Amagaju FC, regaining their position at the top of the league standings.