Ben KWIZERA
The Rwandan Football Association has confirmed that the 2025 Heroes’ Cup final will be played at Kigali Pele Stadium instead of the renovated Amahoro Stadium. The match, scheduled for this Saturday, will see APR F.C face off against POLICE F.C.
Following lengthy discussions among the involved parties, the Rwandan Football Association officially announced that the 2025 Heroes’ Cup final will take place at Kigali Pele Stadium instead of Amahoro Stadium. APR F.C will compete against POLICE F.C after both clubs secured their spots in the final by defeating Rayon Sports and AS Kigali in the semi-finals.
POLICE F.C advanced to the final after defeating Rayon Sports in a penalty shootout on Tuesday following a goalless draw, while APR F.C secured their place by beating AS Kigali 2-0. After both clubs qualified, there was heated speculation regarding the venue for the final. Football supporters engaged in intense discussions, with many advocating for Amahoro Stadium as the most suitable location, while others argued that Kigali Pele Stadium would be more convenient for both teams, considering their fan bases.
The announcement regarding the Heroes’ Cup final was made by FERWAFA this Thursday, calling on all Rwandans to attend this annual event and honor the legacy of national heroes. The previous edition of the Heroes’ Cup was won by POLICE F.C, and their coach, Mashami Vincent, is eager to lift the trophy once again, especially as his team is currently struggling in the Rwanda Premier League.
This match will also be a great opportunity for APR F.C’s newly signed Ugandan players, Kiwanuka and Omedi, to showcase their talents for their new club. Recently, APR F.C underwent major squad changes, with Nigerian internationals Odibo Godwin and Chidiebere Nwobodo departing after playing only the first phase of the Rwandan Premier League. The club management and players reached a mutual agreement to terminate their contracts with immediate effect.
The Heroes’ Cup is an annual football tournament held in the middle of the Rwandan Premier League season to honor and pay tribute to Rwanda’s national heroes. This competition is organized by the Rwandan Football Association in partnership with CHENO (Chancellery for Heroes, National Orders, and Decorations of Honor).
During this period, several sports federations organize competitions and tournaments in their respective fields, including football, volleyball, cycling, and handball, among others. This year marks the 31st celebration of National Heroes’ Day, and all Rwandans are encouraged to attend and participate in the sporting events scheduled for the occasion.