Rwanda Premier League
Al-Merrikh defeats Kiyovu Sports 2–0 in Rwanda Premier League debut
Sudanese side Al-Merrikh marked their entry into Rwanda’s top-flight league with a 2–0 victory over Kiyovu Sports at Kigali Pele Stadium on Monday, November 24, 2025.
Match Overview
The game kicked off at 6:00 PM and was tightly contested in the opening stages, with both teams locking play in midfield. Chances were limited, and neither side looked dominant as the first half ended goalless.
Kiyovu Sports made tactical changes, introducing Nsanzimfura Keddy in the second half, while Uwineza Rene tried to create openings from the right flank. However, their efforts failed to break Al-Merrikh’s defensive setup.
Key Moments
69th minute: Forward Dauda Ba, later named man of the match, struck from outside the box. His powerful shot beat Kiyovu goalkeeper James, giving Al-Merrikh the lead.
87th minute: Substitute Mohamed Teya Abudegen, who had come on in the 69th minute, doubled the score. He controlled a cross from the left inside the penalty area and fired past Kiyovu’s defenders to seal the win.
This defeat comes just days after Kiyovu Sports lost 1–0 to Gasogi United. The team now faces pressure to bounce back in their upcoming fixture against Gorilla FC on Friday.
What’s Next
Kiyovu Sports: vs Gorilla FC on Friday, November 28, 2025
Al-Merrikh: will return to action on November 27, 2025, away to Bugesera FC
Al-Merrikh’s debut win highlights their intent to compete strongly in Rwanda’s Premier League, while Kiyovu Sports must regroup quickly to avoid slipping further down the table.
