The match, a rescheduled Day 3 fixture, marked the first Rwanda Premier League (RPL) game to be held at the newly renovated 45,000-seater stadium since its official reopening in July.

From the first whistle, both teams approached the game with caution, knowing the significance of this clash in the Rwandan football calendar. Rayon Sports, the league leaders, and defending champions APR FC, showcased their tactical prowess, with both sides creating a flurry of chances but unable to break the deadlock.

In the opening minutes, Rayon Sports’ Fall Ngagne had the first shot on goal, but his effort was easily collected by APR’s goalkeeper, Pavelh Ndzila.

The Blues dominated possession early on and were threatening with a series of crosses and set pieces. In the 18th minute, Ngagne found himself in a promising position after a clever pass from Olivier Niyonzima but could only shoot wide of goal with the goalkeeper at his mercy.

APR, on the other hand, responded with a dangerous free kick in the 19th minute when Bugingo Hakim fouled their striker near the penalty box. Ramadhan Niyibizi’s powerful strike hit the crossbar, with both teams unable to capitalize on such opportunities in the opening half.

From the first whistle, both teams approached the game with caution.

The first half saw both teams miss golden chances. In the 24th minute, fans at Amahoro Stadium showed their appreciation for the stadium’s renovation, applauding President Paul Kagame.

By the half-hour mark, Rayon’s Ombalenga Fitina made a brilliant run on the right flank, crossing for Ngagne, whose header was saved by Ndzila. Just moments later, APR’s Mamadou Sy had a close-range shot blocked by Rayon’s Khadime Ndiaye, with the rebound denied by the defense.

The second half saw both teams intensify their efforts to secure a goal. APR began making attacking substitutions, bringing on Arsene Tuyisenge and Jean Bosco Ruboneka in the 61st minute.

Rayon responded by introducing Serumogo Ally and Adama Bagayogo to keep the pressure on the army side. However, despite the tactical changes and increased attacking play, neither side could find the elusive goal.

Both teams were awarded free kicks in dangerous positions, but Rayon’s Hakim Bugingo and APR’s Niyibizi saw their respective shots blocked by defenders or go off target. As the match entered its final stages, the intensity continued to rise, but with no breakthrough.

As the match entered its final stages, the intensity continued to rise, but with no breakthrough.

A free kick in the 80th minute for Rayon Sports, following a handball by Clement Niyigena, failed to yield a goal, with Bugingo’s effort hitting the wall.

APR’s last substitution came in the 87th minute, with Johnson Nwobodo Chidiebere replacing Lamine Bah, while Rayon brought on Junior Elenga for Aziz Bassane a minute later. Despite the late drama and three minutes of added time, the match ended with both sides sharing the spoils.

The draw leaves Rayon Sports at the top of the league with 30 points, while APR remains in 4th place with 19 points. While both teams showed resilience, it was APR’s disciplined defense and strategic play that ensured they held their rivals to a goalless draw in what was a hard-fought encounter.

This historic match at the newly refurbished Amahoro Stadium will be remembered not only for its competitive nature but also for the sportsmanship displayed by both teams. As the league progresses, this result sets the stage for an exciting remainder of the season.