Rwanda’s national football team, Amavubi, have begun preparations for two crucial encounters against Mali as the race to qualify for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) enters a decisive stage.
The first players called up to the national team reported to the Rwanda Football Federation (FERWAFA) hotel on Thursday afternoon, November 5, 2026, to begin their training camp ahead of the two matches. The double-header is particularly important because Rwanda and Mali are level on six points at the top of Group K, having both won their opening two qualifying matches.
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Local Players Lead First Arrivals at Training Camp
Most of the players who had reported to camp by Thursday were based in Rwanda. They include Adolphe Hakizimana, Jean Gilbert Byiringiro and Fidal Uwiyaremye from APR FC; Obed Uwumukiza, Ishimwe Ganijuru, Elie Tatou Iradukunda and Yves Mugisha from Rayon Sports; Patience Niyongira from Police FC; and Hakim Hamis from Kiyovu Sports.
Among the players based abroad, goalkeeper Fiacre Ntwari, who plays for South Africa’s Kruger United, was the first to arrive. Claude Niyomugabo, Kevin Muhire and Innocent Nshuti, who are currently without clubs, were also present at the camp. The remaining summoned players are expected to join the team as preparations continue.
Rwanda and Mali Share Top Spot in Group K
Both Rwanda and Mali have made strong starts to their 2027 AFCON qualifying campaigns, collecting six points from their opening two matches.
Amavubi opened their campaign with a 3-1 victory over Liberia before securing a 2-1 away win against Cape Verde. Mali also collected maximum points, defeating Cape Verde 3-1 before recording a 1-0 victory over Liberia.
The upcoming double-header will therefore see the two leading teams in Group K face each other twice, with both sides seeking to strengthen their positions in the race for qualification.
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First Encounter Set for Bamako
Rwanda will travel to Mali for the first match, scheduled for November 13, 2026, at Stade du 26 Mars in Bamako. The return fixture will take place four days later, on November 17, at Amahoro Stadium in Kigali.
The two encounters offer Amavubi an opportunity to collect crucial points against their closest rivals in the group and strengthen their chances of qualifying for the continental tournament.
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Amavubi Target Return to AFCON
Rwanda are seeking to qualify for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, which will be jointly hosted by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda.
Having secured victories in their opening two matches, Amavubi will aim to maintain their strong start when they face Mali twice in November.
The results of the two matches could have a significant impact on Rwanda’s qualification campaign and their hopes of returning to Africa’s biggest national team football competition.
