The Rwandan under-17 national team, nicknamed the Amajyopine, began their CECAFA U17 campaign on a high note, defeating South Sudan 1-0 at the Kigali Pelé Stadium on October 10, 2026. The match was part of the tournament's first day, which featured three games across different groups. Coach Jimmy Mulisa's team dominated possession but struggled to create clear-cut chances in the first half, which ended goalless.
The second half saw a significant improvement in Rwanda's performance, with the team pushing hard for a breakthrough. Their efforts paid off in the 55th minute when Shyaka Khalifa headed in a crucial goal, giving Rwanda the lead and energizing the home crowd. The team managed to hold onto their advantage until the 90th minute, securing a hard-fought 1-0 win.
The victory places Rwanda in a strong position in Group A, with the team set to face their toughest challenges in the coming days. The CECAFA U17 tournament, hosted in Kigali, features several top teams from East and Central Africa, all vying for a spot in the Africa U17 Cup of Nations. A good performance in this tournament is crucial for Rwanda's young players, who are looking to make a name for themselves on the continental stage.
In other matches on the first day, Uganda thrashed Burundi 8-0 in Group B, while Tanzania edged Kenya 2-0 in Group C. These results set the tone for what promises to be an exciting and competitive tournament. The next round of matches is scheduled for October 12, 2026, after a day's rest for the teams.
The CECAFA U17 tournament is an essential platform for young African players, providing them with valuable experience and exposure. The top three teams in the tournament will qualify for the Africa U17 Cup of Nations, a prestigious competition that has launched the careers of many African stars. For Rwanda, a strong finish in this tournament could be a significant step forward in their football development.
Coach Jimmy Mulisa expressed satisfaction with his team's performance, highlighting the importance of the win. He emphasized that the team would need to maintain their focus and intensity in the coming matches to achieve their goals. The Rwandan team's fans are optimistic about their chances, given the team's impressive display in the opening match.
As the tournament progresses, Rwanda will look to build on their momentum and secure a spot in the Africa U17 Cup of Nations. With a talented squad and experienced coaching staff, the Amajyopine are confident of making a deep run in the competition. The team's success will not only bring joy to Rwandan fans but also contribute to the growth of football in the country.
Key points
- Rwanda's under-17 national team defeated South Sudan 1-0 in their opening CECAFA U17 match.
