APR FC to represent Rwanda in CECAFA Kagame Cup 2024.
Tournament rescheduled to July 6-22 for CAF calendar.
Invited teams include TP Mazembe, Nyasa Big Bullets, Red Arrows.
APR FC prepares with new coach Darko Nović.
As the excitement builds for the upcoming CECAFA Kagame Cup 2024, Rwandan champions APR FC are gearing up to represent their country with pride and ambition. Set to take place in Tanzania and Zanzibar from July 6-22, the tournament promises intense competition and a showcase of regional football talent.
The Line-Up: 16 Teams, One Dream
On June 10, CECAFA unveiled the list of 16 participating teams on its official website, marking the countdown to this highly anticipated event. This year, the tournament will feature a mix of seasoned clubs and new challengers. Notably, three prominent teams from outside the CECAFA Zone—DR Congo’s TP Mazembe, Malawi’s Nyasa Big Bullets, and Zambia’s Red Arrows FC—have been invited, adding an extra layer of excitement and competition.
The inclusion of these teams underscores the tournament’s growing prestige and its role as a preparatory platform for the upcoming CAF Champions League and CAF Confederation Cup. “This competition will help our teams in the CECAFA Zone to prepare better in the pre-season ahead of the 2024/2025 CAF competitions,” said CECAFA Executive Director John Auka Gecheo. He emphasized that the participation of top sides from DR Congo, Malawi, and Zambia would enhance the competitive edge of the tournament.
Adjusted Schedule for Optimal Preparation
Originally slated to run from July 20 to August 4, the CECAFA Kagame Cup was rescheduled to avoid clashes with the CAF calendar. The new dates ensure that the tournament concludes before the 2024/2025 CAF Club competitions commence in August. This adjustment reflects CECAFA’s commitment to providing its member teams with the best possible preparation for continental challenges.
APR FC’s Road to the Cup
APR FC, Rwanda’s premier football club, is entering the tournament with high hopes and rigorous preparation. The team has resumed training, focusing on both the CECAFA Kagame Cup and the CAF Champions League preliminary round in August. This dual focus illustrates the club’s ambition to excel not only regionally but also on the continental stage.
In addition to on-field preparations, APR FC is undergoing significant changes off the field. Following the departure of French coach Thierry Froger, who left at the end of the Primus National League campaign, the club is set to announce Serbian coach Darko Nović as the new head coach. Nović brings a wealth of experience, having previously managed Algerian side ES Setif, US Monastir, and the Libyan national team. His appointment is seen as a strategic move to bolster the team’s performance and tactical acumen.
CECAFA Kagame Cup 2024 Teams
The CECAFA Kagame Cup 2024 will feature a diverse array of teams from across the region, each bringing unique strengths and styles. The confirmed teams include:
- Burundi: Vital ‘O
- Sudan: El Merreikh, Al Hilal, Hai El Wadi
- Tanzania: Young Africans SC, Simba SC, Azam FC, Coastal Union FC
- Kenya: Gor Mahia FC
- Uganda: SC Villa
- Zanzibar: JKU SC
- South Sudan: El Merreikh FC-Bentiu
- Rwanda: APR FC
- DR Congo: TP Mazembe
- Malawi: Nyasa Big Bullets
- Zambia: Red Arrows FC
This diverse lineup guarantees a tournament filled with high-stakes matches and a display of football excellence, as clubs vie for the coveted title.
Expectations at the Tournament
APR FC aims to leverage their rigorous preparation and new coaching leadership for strong performances.
The inclusion of TP Mazembe, Nyasa Big Bullets, and Red Arrows adds competitive intensity.
Rescheduling ensures teams are well-prepared for both the tournament and upcoming CAF competitions.
