Africa-Press – Rwanda. Midfielder Jean Bosco Ruboneka was in superb form as his hat trick helped APR FC beat Musanze FC 3-1 in last Rwanda Premier League encounter held at Amahoro Stadium on Wednesday, May 28, to finish the season in grand style.
With APR having already won the title and Musanze FC had also escaped relegation, both teams did not put much effort early in the encounter considering that their fate had already been sealed.
The win was, however, all that the army side wanted to celebrate their title with a smile.
The title party started even before kickoff as APR fans, clad in their black and white colors, flocked Gisementi amidst fanfare as some of them on motor bikes and in cars blew horns to start the party.
APR started well but missed a penalty in the 21st mimute. There was an infringement in the Musanze FC penalty area. Djibril Ouatarra had a chance to increase his tally but his spot kick was saved by goalkeeper Jean de Dieu Nsabimana.
APR finally broke the deadlock in the 30th minute through a fine effort from Ruboneka.
Musanze refused to give up as they took control of the second half. And shortly after the teams came back from halftime break, striker Rashid Mchelenga pulled even for the visitors in the 49th minute to make it 1-1.
Ruboneka, who was in top form on the evening, restored APR’s lead with his second goal in the 65th minute, before completing a hat trick in the 76th minute with another great goal to make it 3-1 as APR completely dismantled their opponent.
The champions held on to win the match to finish the season at the top with 67 points, four points clear of Rayon Sports who beat Gorilla FC 1-0 courtesy of Emmanuel Nshimiyimana’s solitary goal at Kigali Pele Stadium to wrap up the season with 63 points.
APR have now won a record-extending 23rd title overall, and a double this season, having also won the Peace Cup in early May.
The Rwandan champions will now represent Rwanda in the 2025/26 CAF Champions League while Rayon will play the CAF Confederation Cup.
Elsewhere, Muhazi United joined Vision FC to the second division league after losing 2-1 to Amagaju FC at Huye Stadium.
AS Muhanga and Gicumbi FC will now take the pair’s places in the top tier league effective next season.
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