Sports Minister Nelly Mukazayire delivered the President’s message to the players in the dressing room following Rwanda’s 3-1 victory over Liberia in their opening Group K match on Friday, September 25, 2026.
Kagame attended the match at Amahoro Stadium and was pleased with the team’s performance, according to Mukazayire.
“We believe that when we start well, we finish well. We are proud of you and the work you have done because it showed determination, commitment and teamwork, and that was reflected in the result you delivered,” Mukazayire told the players.
She encouraged the team to build on the victory while identifying areas where they could improve.
“This is the beginning. We believe you have seen where you need to put in more effort. The coach and the whole team did well. Whether those on the pitch or those outside it, we could see that everyone was supporting you,” she said.
Mukazayire also urged the players to remain focused and composed, reminding them of their ability to compete against strong opponents.
“Have a clear objective and remain calm. This is one of the messages I was asked to deliver to you. You have talent and ability in the way you play. Another message I was given is that we are all behind you, both the leadership and the fans,” she said.
She acknowledged that Cape Verde would present a difficult challenge but urged Amavubi to approach the match with determination.
“Cape Verde is a strong team, but compete against them, put in the effort and you will beat them,” Mukazayire added.
Rwanda opened its AFCON 2027 qualifying campaign with a 3-1 win over Liberia at Amahoro Stadium, with goals from Abeddy Biramahire, Leroy-Jacques Mickels and Joy-Lance Mickels. Liberia scored through Sylvanus Nimely.
After the first round of matches in Group K, Rwanda and Mali lead the group with three points each, with both teams having a goal difference of plus two. Liberia and Cape Verde are yet to earn points.
Amavubi left Kigali International Airport late on Friday night, heading to Cape Verde for their second qualifying match.
Four players who had been part of the training camp did not travel with the team. They are Mbonyumwami Taiba, Uwiyaremye Fidali, Niyongira Patient and Mugisha Yves.
Rwanda will face Cape Verde on Tuesday, September 29, at the Estádio Nacional de Cabo Verde in Praia.
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