Denis Omedi and Hakim Kiwanuka played key roles in APR’s commanding 3-1 victory over Police on Sunday at Kigali Pele Stadium, as the defending champions closed the gap on league leaders Rayon Sports to just two points.
Kiwanuka, who joined APR in the January transfer window, made an early impact, nearly opening the scoring in the second minute after being set up by Djibril Ouattara.
The former SC Villa midfielder, however, fired his effort wide. He made amends just seven minutes later, heading in a precise cross from Gilbert Byiringiro to give APR the lead.
APR continued to dominate, and fellow Ugandan Omedi, another January signing, was also involved in a decisive moment after halftime.
In the 47th minute, his shot forced a save from Patient Niyongira, but Ouattara reacted quickly to slot in the rebound and double APR’s advantage.
The army side continued to press forward and won a penalty five minutes later after Samuel Ndizeye fouled Bosco Ruboneka in the box. Ouattara calmly converted to make it 3-0.
Omedi and Ouattara were substituted in the 73rd minute after strong performances, while Kiwanuka had earlier been withdrawn at halftime as APR looked to rotate their squad.
Despite conceding a late goal in the 90th minute and facing a nervy moment when Police were awarded a stoppage-time penalty, APR held firm, with Pierre Ishimwe saving Didier Mugisha’s spot-kick to secure the win.
The victory keeps APR in second place with 40 points, just two behind Rayon Sports.
The two sides will face off in a crucial derby on March 9 at Amahoro Stadium, a match that could prove pivotal in the title race.
