APR FC Celebrate Record,Breaking Peace Cup Success After Derby Victory ,Ready for New African Challenges,What Next for Rayon Sports After Painful Peace Cup Final Defeat?

APR FC once again proved why they are Rwanda’s dominant force after defeating arch-rivals Rayon Sports 4-2 on penalties following a 1-1 draw in the 2026 Peace Cup final at Amahoro Stadium.
The victory handed APR FC a record 15th Peace Cup trophy and completed an impressive domestic double after already winning the Rwanda Premier League title earlier this season.
Rayon Sports opened the scoring before halftime through Asman Ndikumana from the penalty spot, but APR FC responded strongly in the second half with William Togui Mel equalizing in the 52nd minute. After both sides failed to find a winner in regulation time, the final was decided on penalties where APR kept their composure to seal another major trophy.
APR converted all four of their spot-kicks through Hakim Kiwanuka, Gilbert Byiringiro, Claude Niyomugabo, and Denis Omedi, while Rayon Sports missed twice during the shootout.

What this means for APR FC in Africa
APR FC will now represent Rwanda in the next edition of the CAF Champions League after winning the league title.
For APR, expectations are now much higher than simply participating. The club has invested heavily in experienced players, improved squad depth, and a more competitive technical bench. Supporters will expect the team to finally push beyond the preliminary rounds and compete seriously for a group-stage place.
APR have shown domestic dominance, but African football demands:
- Greater squad depth
- Clinical finishing away from home
- Better tactical discipline against North and West African clubs
- Stronger mentality in away fixtures

The club’s recent campaigns have shown progress, including reaching the second round of the CAF Champions League in recent years, but fans now want continental consistency.
If APR keeps key players and signs quality reinforcements during the transfer window, they could become one of East Africa’s strongest representatives next season.
What next for Rayon Sports?

Despite losing the final, Rayon Sports still secured qualification for the CAF Confederation Cup and will return to continental football next season.
For Rayon, the focus now shifts toward rebuilding and strengthening the squad after another painful defeat against their biggest rivals. The club showed moments of quality throughout the season but struggled with consistency in decisive matches.
The Confederation Cup could actually suit Rayon Sports better because:
- The competition is slightly less demanding than the Champions League
- Rayon traditionally performs well in knockout football
- The club has a passionate fan base capable of creating difficult home atmospheres
Many supporters will remember Rayon Sports’ memorable run to the CAF Confederation Cup quarterfinals in 2018, one of the greatest continental achievements by a Rwandan club.
However, for Rayon to compete seriously in Africa again, the club must:
- Improve squad depth
- Add more creativity in midfield
- Become more efficient in front of goal
- Maintain stability in coaching and management
A rivalry that continues to grow
The latest final once again highlighted why APR FC vs Rayon Sports remains Rwanda’s biggest football rivalry. A packed Amahoro Stadium, high intensity, dramatic penalties, and another trophy battle delivered a classic derby atmosphere.
APR leave the season celebrating dominance and silverware, while Rayon Sports head into the offseason searching for answers and revenge next season
