Omedi’s APR FC Triumphs Over Police FC to Win 2025 Rwanda Heroes Cup

APR FC showcased their resilience and determination as they triumphed over Police FC 4-2 on penalties to claim the 2025 Rwanda Heroes Cup at Kigali Pele Stadium on Saturday, February 1. The army club secured their first trophy of the season in dramatic fashion, despite being reduced to 10 men in extra time.

The highly anticipated final saw both sides display attacking intent from the onset. APR FC nearly took an early lead in the second minute when Hakim Kiwanuka connected beautifully with a pass from Lamine Bah, but Police FC goalkeeper Patience Niyongira made a crucial save. Moments later, Kiwanuka dazzled past three defenders and unleashed a powerful shot, only for Niyongira to stand firm and deny him once more.

Police FC responded in the 12th minute when Issah Yakubu came close to scoring with a header from Eric Nsabimana’s cross, but his effort narrowly missed the target. Three minutes later, an error from Aliou Souane gifted Police FC striker Elijah Ani a chance, but he failed to convert.

As the game progressed, both teams intensified their physicality, making it difficult for either side to maintain prolonged possession. APR FC built most of their attacks from the right flank and came close to breaking the deadlock in the 30th and 35th minutes, only for Niyongira to produce more key saves. With neither side able to score, the first half ended goalless.

Tactical Changes and Late Drama

APR head coach Darko Novic made attacking changes in the 55th minute, introducing Djibril Ouatarra and Lamine Bah to bolster their offense. The changes injected urgency into APR’s play, but Police FC remained resilient. In the 65th minute, Allan Katerega dispossessed Bosco Ruboneka and set up Didier Mugisha, whose shot hit the side net.

APR FC had a golden opportunity in the 80th minute when Ouatarra delivered a perfect cross to Gilbert Mugisha, but the latter headed the ball over the bar despite being unmarked. The closing stages of regulation time saw both teams adopt a cautious approach, relying on counterattacks, but the match remained goalless, leading to extra time.

The additional 30 minutes saw a major turning point when APR FC were reduced to 10 men in the final 10 minutes. Defender Clement Niyigena was shown a second yellow card for a reckless challenge on Elijah Ani, leaving his side a man down. However, Police FC failed to capitalize on the numerical advantage, as APR FC defended resolutely to push the match into a penalty shootout.

APR FC Hold Their Nerve in Penalty Shootout

In the tense shootout, APR FC’s goalkeeper Pavelh Ndzila emerged as the hero, saving two penalties to secure a 4-2 victory. The triumph was a redemption moment for APR FC, who had lost the previous edition of the tournament to Police FC in 2024.

Meanwhile, in the Women’s category, Rayon Sports defeated Indahangarwa 5-4 on penalties after a goalless draw in regulation time, adding to the excitement of the tournament.

The Heroes Cup is an annual tournament held to commemorate Rwanda’s National Heroes’ Day, observed every year on February 1. The competition honors individuals who have made significant contributions to the country.

With this victory, APR FC kick-start their season on a high note, demonstrating their intent to dominate Rwandan football once again.