President Paul Kagame has urged Amavubi to maintain their fighting spirit after Rwanda opened its Africa Cup of Nations 2027 qualifying campaign with a 3-1 victory over Liberia.
Kagame watched Friday’s Group K match at Amahoro Stadium, where more than 40,000 fans saw Rwanda score three times in the first half before holding off a stronger Liberia after the break.
Sports Minister Nelly Mukazayire delivered Kagame’s message to the players ahead of their next match against Cape Verde, telling them the president was proud of their performance but expected them to build on it.
“We are proud of you and the work you have done because it has shown commitment, sacrifice and determination,” Mukazayire said.
She urged the players to remain focused and composed, saying they had the ability to compete against stronger opposition.
“Cape Verde is a strong team, but compete with them, put in the effort and you will beat them,” she said.
Rwanda made an explosive start against Liberia, taking the lead through Abeddy Biramahire after two minutes.
Leroy-Jacques Mickels doubled the advantage in the 33rd minute before Sylvanus Nimely pulled one back for Liberia five minutes later.
Joy-Lance Mickels restored Rwanda’s two-goal lead from the penalty spot just before halftime.
Liberia pushed harder after the break and came close to scoring again, but Rwanda goalkeeper Byiringiro Jean Gilbert made an important save.
Rwanda also went close to a fourth when Leroy-Jacques Mickels struck the post in the 57th minute.
Liberia was reduced to 10 men three minutes later when Kpah Sherman was sent off following a challenge on Mugisha Bonheur.
The victory leaves Rwanda with three points from its opening match, while Cape Verde will be looking for its first points after losing 3-1 away to Mali.
Rwanda will face Cape Verde in Praia on Sept. 29 in its second Group K qualifier.
The top performers in the group will continue their pursuit of a place at the 2027 tournament, which will be hosted jointly by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda.
