Stephen Constantine used Rwanda’s 0-0 friendly against Kenya on Monday to give playing time to a heavily changed squad, making 10 changes from the team that defeated Cape Verde in the latest 2027 AFCON qualifier.
The match at Amahoro Stadium was the final game of Rwanda’s September-October international schedule, with the team unable to add to its recent wins over Liberia and Cape Verde.
Biramahire Abeddy was the only player to keep his place from the starting XI that faced Cape Verde, while the rest of the lineup was changed.
Amavubi controlled much of the opening period and pushed into Kenya’s defensive area but failed to turn possession into clear scoring opportunities.
After the first 15 minutes, the match became more cautious, with the two teams spending much of their time exchanging passes in midfield. Kenya produced one of the better chances before halftime when Stanley Wilson Omondi struck a powerful shot that was deflected behind for a corner.
The first half ended without a goal.
Constantine made four changes at the break, bringing on Hakim Hamiss, Joy-Lance Mickels, Bizimana Djihad and Byiringiro Jean Gilbert for Biramahire, Muhire Kevin, Uwumukiza Obed and Samuel Gueulette.
Rwanda looked more threatening after the changes. Tatou created an opening in the 54th minute with a ball into the box, but Abud Omar Khamis Abud got to it before Nshuti Innocent, with the move ending in a corner.
Rwanda made another four substitutions six minutes later. Leroy Jacques Mickels, Niyomugabo Claude, Mbonyumwami Taiba and Niyongira Patience came on for Tatou, Nshuti, Kwizera Jojea and Hakizimana Adolphe.
Neither side could find a breakthrough as the match became increasingly scrappy in midfield during the final 20 minutes.
Rwanda’s next assignment will be more significant, with Amavubi travelling to Bamako to face Mali on Nov. 11 in their third Group K qualifier for the 2027 AFCON.
The two teams will meet again four days later when Rwanda hosts Mali at Amahoro Stadium.
