On Thursday, the annual RDF Liberation Cup 2025 concluded, marking the 31st Liberation Day celebrations through sports competitions among Rwandan Defence Forces (RDF) units.
In football, the final match took place at Kigali Pele Stadium at 4:00 PM, featuring a clash between the Republican Guard (responsible for protecting the President and senior officials) and the 3rd Division team. The match was intense and highly contested by both sides.
The 3rd Division began strongly, with fluid passes and high pressure. However, by the 20th minute, the Republican Guard gained momentum and took control of the game.
In the 25th minute, the Republican Guard earned a corner kick, which Captain Ian Kagame headed but narrowly missed as it flew over the goalpost.
The second half kicked off with renewed energy from the Republican Guard, aiming to break the deadlock. In the 47th minute, they were awarded a penalty, taken by Shema Mick, but the ball soared over the crossbar.
The match remained goalless until the 87th minute, when the Republican Guard scored the only goal of the game after a well-executed team effort. The match ended 1-0, giving the Republican Guard the 2025 RDF Liberation Cup title.
In addition to football, the Republican Guard also won this year’s Volleyball Cup, showing their overall dominance in the competition.
The final was attended by several high-ranking military and civilian officials, including members of Ian Kagame’s family.
RDF Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Mubarakh Muganga, commended all teams for their discipline and competitive spirit throughout the tournament.
As part of regional military cooperation, troops from East African Community (EAC) member states are also currently in Rwanda conducting community health and development programs.
These include delegations led by Lt Gen. Kayanja Muhanga from Uganda, Maj Gen. Frederick Leuria from Kenya, and Brig Gen. Gaspard Baratuza from Burundi, among other distinguished guests.
