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FROM APE RUGUNGA TO EUROPE: The Meteoric Rise of Niyo David to the Amavubi Senior Squad

KIGALI, RWANDA – For 19-year-old David Niyo, the phrase “dreams come true” is no longer a Hard work pays off it is his current reality. Just weeks after securing a high,profile move to the Ukrainian Premier League, the midfield sensation has officially received his first-ever call-up to the Rwanda Senior National Team (Amavubi) for the upcoming FIFA Series 2026.

A Star is Born: The School & Academy Roots

Niyo’s journey began in the intense atmosphere of Rwandan interschool football. Representing Association of Parents for Education (APE Rugunga), he was the heartbeat of a side that dominated local tournaments, including a notable victory in the FEASSSA Games

His talent was quickly scouted by the APR FC Academy (Intare FC), where he honed his technical skills and vision. Recognizing his need for top-flight experience, APR loaned the teenager to Kiyovu Sports in January 2025.

The Breakthrough: 3 Goals, 4 Assists, and a Ticket to Europe

At Kiyovu Sports, David Niyo didn’t just participate; he excelled. During the first round of the Rwanda Premier League, the attacking midfielder became a fan favorite, providing a creative spark that resulted in 3 goals and 4 assists. His ability to unlock defenses and his maturity on the ball caught the eyes of European scouts.

In February 2026, the dream took a massive leap forward. Niyo signed a lucrative five-year contract with Ukrainian side NK Veres Rivne, following a successful trial in Turkey. He became only the second Rwandan player to join a Ukrainian club, following in the footsteps of national team captain Djihad Bizimana.

The Ultimate Honor: Representing the Nation

Having already represented Rwanda at the U15 and U17 levels (cecafa kagame cup under 15 and under17), Niyo has now reached the pinnacle.

New Amavubi head coach Stephen Constantine included Niyo in the 31-man squad for the FIFA Series 2026. Speaking from the national team camp at the FERWAFA Hotel, a determined Niyo shared his excitement: “It is a great honor to wear the Amavubi shirt. I have worked for this since my days at APE Rugunga. Now, I want to prove my worth on the international stage and justify the coach’s trust.”

Player Profile: David Niyo

FeatureDetails
Age19 (Born June 23, 2007)
PositionAttacking Midfielder / Central Midfield
Current ClubNK Veres Rivne (Ukraine)
Former ClubsAPR FC Academy, Kiyovu Sports (Loan)
Stats (2025/26)3 Goals, 4 Assists (Kiyovu Sports)
Next MatchRwanda vs. Grenada (March 27, 2026)

What’s Next? Rwanda is set to face Grenada on March 27, 2026, at the newly renovated Amahoro Stadium. All eyes will be on the “Musanze-born” wonderkid as he looks to make his senior debut in front of a home crowd and In front of Rwanda citizen

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