Did APR FC and Rayon Sports Secretly Swap Their Player Recruitment Strategies?

Since Rwandan clubs embraced the policy of signing more foreign players to strengthen their squads for both local and international competitions, Rayon Sports stood out as a team that scouted and signed top-quality foreign players. They brought in talents like Héritier Luvumbu, Joakiam Ojera, Adama Bagayoko, and Fall Ngagne, players who made a significant impact.

In contrast, APR FC struggled to find the right foreign players after reopening their doors to international signings. Apart from Victor Mbaoma, who impressed in his first season, other recruits like Salomon Bindjeme, Johnson Nwobodo Chidiebere, and Joseph Apam Asogwe were quickly released after underwhelming performances.

Moreover, both foreign and local players signed by APR FC before January remain uncertain about their future, as they struggle to secure playing time. It appears they were recruited without thorough assessment.

During the January transfer window, APR FC made only three signings: Cheik Djibril Ouattara from Burkina Faso, and Ugandans Denis Omedi and Hakim Kiwanuka.

The question of whether APR FC and Rayon Sports secretly swapped their recruitment strategies arises from an unusual trend. While Rayon Sports was known for impactful signings, this time APR FC’s new players have outshined Rayon’s. APR FC’s three new signings have already scored five goals, while Rayon’s four new players are yet to find the back of the net.

Among APR FC's new recruits, Denis Omedi has already scored three goals since joining in January, while both Cheik Djibril Ouattara and Hakim Kiwanuka have one goal each. These signings have not only strengthened the squad but also helped APR FC win the Heroes Cup and continue their pursuit of the league and Peace Cup titles.

While APR FC celebrates the success of its new signings, Rayon Sports faces disappointment as none of its four new recruits Biramahire Abeddy (Rwanda), Assana Nah Innocent, Souleymane Daffe, and Adulai Jalo all foreigners have managed to score.

This weekend could further fuel the rivalry, as both teams head to Huye for crucial league matches. APR FC will face Mukura VS, while Rayon Sports takes on Amagaju FC.

In the first round of the league, both teams left Huye disappointed, with Rayon Sports losing to Mukura VS and APR FC falling to Amagaju.

Currently, Rayon Sports leads the league table with 40 points, while APR FC sits second with 37 points.

At APR FC, they are celebrating the performance of their new players

None of Rayon Sports' new players has managed to find the back of the net