On Thursday, the RDF Liberation Cup 2025 came to an exciting end, showcasing a variety of sporting activities and thrilling competitions.
One of the biggest highlights was the football final held at Kigali Pele Stadium at 4 p.m., drawing widespread attention. The match featured the Republican Guard Rwanda—a team consisting of soldiers protecting President Kagame and other top national leaders—facing off against Division 3.
The intense game attracted Rwanda's top officials, including the Minister of Defense, Juvénal Marizamunda; Rwanda’s Chief of Defense Staff, Gen. Mubarakh Muganga; the State Secretary in the Ministry of Sports, Rwego Ngarambe; and FERWAFA President Munyantwali Alphonse.
The action-packed match began with Division 3 displaying dominance and scoring an early goal within the first 10 minutes. However, their celebration was cut short as the referee disallowed the goal due to an infringement.
Both teams kept the pressure on, creating numerous opportunities to score. The Republican Guard nearly took the lead with a penalty kick, but the chance went unclaimed when their player missed, sending the ball over the crossbar.
The breakthrough came in the second half at the 64th minute, with Republican Guard’s Ndagijimana Pierre netting the decisive goal. Capt Ian Kagame, the team’s captain, was instrumental in steering his team to victory. The Republican Guard triumphantly defended their championship title, having also won the cup the previous year.
The third spot in the tournament was claimed by the 4th Division team, who secured a 2-1 victory against Military Police.
Republican Guard clinched the Liberation Cup 2025 title.
The Republican Guard team, spearheaded by Capt Ian Kagame, emerged victorious in the competition.
Republican Guard took home a prize of 10 million Rwandan francs in recognition of their outstanding performance.
