Seth Mapoli
May 14, 2026APR FC and Rayon Sports set for blockbuster Peace Cup derby final in Kigali
APR FC: Picture credit. APR FC
APR FC and Rayon Sports set for blockbuster Peace Cup derby final in Kigali
The stage is set for a blockbuster Kigali derby after APR FC and Rayon Sports FC booked their places in the 2026 FERWAFA Peace Cup final, with the highly anticipated showdown scheduled for May 23, 2026.
The final carries added significance as the winner will automatically qualify to represent Rwanda in the CAF Confederation Cup, raising the stakes in one of the country’s most prestigious domestic competitions.
APR FC sealed their place in dominant fashion after defeating Etincelles FC 3-1 in the second leg of their semifinal at Kigali Pelé Stadium, completing a commanding 6-2 aggregate victory. The defending champions once again showcased their strength and attacking quality, underlining their status as one of the favourites to retain the trophy.
The military side started brightly and broke the deadlock in the 26th minute through Gilbert Mugisha. Their control of the match continued before Memel Dao doubled the lead just before halftime, putting APR firmly in command of the tie.
View this post on Instagram
APR FC and Rayon Sports setup repeat of last season’s Peace Cup final
After the break, Djibril Ouattara added a third goal in the 48th minute to further extend the advantage. Etincelles managed a consolation through Hussein Ciza later in the second half, but it did little to change the outcome as APR comfortably progressed.
Meanwhile, Rayon Sports FC secured their place in the final a day earlier after a tense semifinal against Gorilla FC. The Blues advanced on the away goals rule following a 1-1 aggregate draw over two legs, with a 1-1 first-leg result and a goalless return leg at Kigali Pelé Stadium.
Rayon Sports’ discipline and defensive resilience proved decisive as they held firm under pressure to reach yet another Peace Cup final, keeping alive their ambition of lifting a third title in the competition.
The final now sets up a repeat of last season’s meeting, where APR FC defeated Rayon Sports 2-0 to lift the trophy. With both sides in strong form, anticipation is already building for another fierce encounter between Rwanda’s biggest football rivals.
