Rwanda’s Amavubi secured a historic 2-1 victory over Cape Verde in Praia on Tuesday evening, September 29, 2026, to move top of Group K in the qualifiers for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations with six points from two matches.
The victory comes just four days after Rwanda defeated Liberia 3-1 in Kigali, giving Stephen Constantine’s side a perfect start to their AFCON qualifying campaign.
Cape Verde, who recently made their historic debut at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, started strongly in front of their home supporters and dominated possession during the opening stages.
They created several early chances, with Rwanda goalkeeper Fiacre Ntwari forced into action after Cape Verde threatened through long range efforts and attacking moves.
Rwanda gradually grew into the match and began creating opportunities of their own.
Cape Verde eventually broke the deadlock in the 39th minute, when Gilson Benchimol Tavares converted a cross from Ryan Mendes to put the hosts 1-0 ahead.
But Rwanda responded immediately.
Just before halftime, Niyomugabo Claude produced a powerful strike from outside the box after being set up by Joy Lance Mickels, sending the ball into the net to level the score.
The Amavubi then completed the comeback shortly after the restart.
In the 51st minute, Iradukunda Elie Tatou scored Rwanda’s second goal after connecting with another dangerous delivery from Joy Lance Mickels, putting the visitors 2-1 ahead.
Cape Verde pushed forward in search of an equaliser during the remaining minutes, but Rwanda’s defence held firm to secure all three points.
The match also saw Noam Emeran make his debut for Rwanda after coming on in the 68th minute for Mugisha Gilbert. The appearance was particularly significant as he followed in the footsteps of his father, Fritz Emeran Nkusi, who represented Rwanda 19 years ago.
The victory marks a historic achievement for the Amavubi, as it is the first time Rwanda have won two consecutive matches in an AFCON qualification campaign.
Rwanda now sit at the top of Group K with six points from six, putting them in a strong position ahead of their next qualifiers against Mali in November.
However, Rwanda will have to cope without Mugisha Bonheur in the next match after he received a yellow card against Cape Verde, having already been booked in the earlier fixture.
With the Amavubi now having collected maximum points from their opening two matches, Rwanda’s road toward the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations has begun in impressive fashion.
