Rwanda is gearing up for the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers with a strong determination not to miss the tournament, having been absent from recent editions. Under the guidance of coach Vincent Mashami, the national team is preparing to face Maputo on November 14 before hosting Cameroon on November 17. Mashami has selected a balanced squad that combines experienced internationals playing abroad with local talent, reflecting the country’s ambition to secure qualification.
The squad features eleven players based outside Rwanda, including key goalscorers Meddie Kagere and Jacques Tuyisenge. Their presence adds international experience and scoring power to the team. The local leagues are also well represented, with clubs such as AS Kigali, APR FC, and Police FC contributing multiple players, ensuring that the squad benefits from players familiar with each other and the domestic football environment.
In goal, Rwanda has four options: Ndayishimiye Eric of AS Kigali, Kimenyi Yves from Rayon Sports, Habarurema Gahungu of Police FC, and Mvuyekure Emery, who plays in Kenya for Tusker FC. This group offers a mix of domestic consistency and exposure to foreign leagues, providing Mashami with reliable last-line options.
The defensive line is led by Manzi Thierry, Fitina Omborenga, and Imanishimwe Emmanuel, all from APR FC, with additional support from Rutanga Eric (Rayon Sports), Mutsinzi Ange (APR FC), Bayisenge Emery (Saif Sporting Club, Bangladesh), Rwatubyaye Abdul (Colorado Rapids, USA), and Nirisarike Salomon (Pyunik FC, Armenia). This combination of home-based and international defenders offers both cohesion and experience, critical for facing tough opponents like Cameroon.
In midfield, Rwanda relies on players such as Niyonzima Haruna (AS Kigali), Iranzi Jean Claude (Rayon Sports), Niyonzima Ally (Al Bashaer, Oman), Niyonzima Olivier (APR FC), Nsabimana Eric (AS Kigali), Muhire Kevin (Misr El Makkasa, Egypt), Bizimana Djihad (Waasland Beveren, Belgium), and Manishimwe Djabel (APR FC). This midfield group balances technical skill, vision, and international experience, giving the team the creativity and control needed to compete at a high level.
Up front, the attacking line is spearheaded by Mico Justin (Police FC), Usengimana Danny (APR FC), Meddie Kagere (Simba SC, Tanzania), Jacques Tuyisenge (Pétro Atletico, Angola), Hakizimana Muhadjiri (Emirates Club, UAE), Iyabivuze Osée (Police FC), and Sibomana Patrick (Young Africans, Tanzania). With a mix of domestic and foreign-based forwards, Rwanda possesses both pace and finishing ability, crucial for breaking down organized defenses.
Overall, Mashami has assembled a well-rounded squad for the AFCON qualifiers, blending youth and experience, domestic talent and international exposure. The selection reflects Rwanda’s commitment to making a strong return to the Africa Cup of Nations and gives the team a solid foundation to compete against strong sides like Mozambique and Cameroon. With careful preparation and teamwork, the squad aims to achieve a historic qualification and restore Rwanda’s presence on the continental stage.
