The results mark a historic milestone for the Rwanda Development Board, as every club carrying the nation’s flagship tourism brand has converged at the penultimate stage of Europe’s most prestigious competition.
The path to the final four was paved with high-stakes drama as the partner clubs navigated through Europe’s elite. Arsenal FC demonstrated a defensive masterclass to eliminate Sporting CP, holding firm for a goalless draw at the Emirates Stadium following a slim 1-0 victory in Lisbon to secure back-to-back semifinal appearances.
Meanwhile, Paris Saint-Germain silenced Anfield by overcoming Liverpool FC in a tactical heavyweight clash to continue their pursuit of a maiden Champions League trophy. In an all-Spanish affair, the “Visit Rwanda” newcomer Atlético de Madrid staged a gritty performance to knock out FC Barcelona, proving their mettle under the lights of the Metropolitano.
Finally, in the most explosive tie of the round, FC Bayern Munich dispatched Real Madrid in a 10-goal aggregate thriller, where a 4-3 victory in the second leg cemented the German side’s status as a tournament favourite.
FC Bayern Munich remains a key collaborator of Rwanda through a refined partnership that prioritises football development. This ongoing cooperation focuses on long-term impact, including the FC Bayern Youth Academy in Kigali, coaching exchange programmes, and grassroots initiatives aimed at nurturing Rwandan talent.
President Paul Kagame celebrated the clean sweep on social media, highlighting the synergy between the clubs’ on-field excellence and the nation’s global branding. The President noted that the performances of Atlético de Madrid, Arsenal, and PSG have shown consistency, excellence, and resolve.
He extended specific congratulations to the newest partner, Atlético de Madrid, alongside long-standing collaborators Arsenal and PSG, wishing them success as they head into the home stretch of the tournament.
“Proud to see three Visit Rwanda partners qualifying for the UEFA Champions League semi-finals! The performances of Atlético de Madrid, Arsenal and PSG have shown consistency, excellence and resolve, and we look forward to the games ahead!” President Kagame said in a post on X on Wednesday night.
The upcoming semifinal fixtures will see Paris Saint-Germain face FC Bayern Munich, while Atlético de Madrid takes on Arsenal. The upcoming semifinal fixtures will see Paris Saint-Germain face FC Bayern Munich, while Atlético de Madrid takes on Arsenal FC. These pairings ensure that “Visit Rwanda” will maintain a strong presence on the Champions League stage, with at least one partner club guaranteed a place in the final in Munich.
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