Rwanda made a strong start to the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with a 3–1 victory over Liberia at Amahoro Stadium on Friday, September 25, 2026, earning three points in their opening Group K match.
Abeddy Biramahire gave Amavubi an early lead after just two minutes, setting the tone for a lively opening period. Joy-Lance Mickels then added Rwanda’s second goal in the 33rd minute before scoring again from the penalty spot to put the hosts 3–1 ahead before half-time. Liberia briefly reduced the deficit through Sylvanus Nimely in the 38th minute, but Rwanda restored their two-goal advantage before the break.
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Liberia Reduced to 10 Players
The visitors’ hopes of mounting a comeback suffered another setback in the second half when captain Kpah Sherman was sent off in the 61st minute, leaving Liberia with 10 players.
Rwanda subsequently controlled much of the match and protected their advantage until the final whistle. Goalkeeper Fiacre Ntwari also made important saves as Liberia continued to search for a way back into the game.
Rwanda Begin Group K Campaign with Three Points
The victory gives Rwanda three points from their opening Group K fixture, with the group also featuring Mali and Cape Verde. CAF lists Rwanda among the teams that made winning starts to the AFCON 2027 qualifying campaign.
Rwanda will travel to Cape Verde for their second Group K fixture on September 29, while the qualifying schedule continues through the FIFA international windows set by CAF.
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Amavubi Target AFCON Return
Rwanda are seeking to return to the Africa Cup of Nations finals for the first time since their only previous appearance at the tournament in 2004. CAF notes that Amavubi came close to qualifying for the 2025 edition after finishing level on points with Benin but missing out on the second qualification place on head-to-head record.
The victory over Liberia therefore gives Rwanda an early boost as they continue their campaign for a place at the 2027 tournament, which will be co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda.
Liberia, meanwhile, are seeking to end a long absence from the continental finals. The Lone Stars last appeared at the AFCON finals in 2002.
Rwanda now turn their attention to Cape Verde as their AFCON 2027 qualification campaign continues.
