A group of 10 Rwandan football prospects are in Munich, Germany, as they gear up represent the country at the highly-anticipated 2023 Bayern Munich Youth Cup tournament scheduled from October 18-23.
Organised annually by Bundesliga giants FC Bayern Munich, the prestigious tournament is renowned for showcasing the best of European professional club football's rising stars.
The boys made it to the tournament after passing a nationwide detection held in September, attracting more than 10,000 participants from across the country.
READ ALSO: 10 Rwandan football prospects set for 2023 ‘Bayern Munich Youth Cup’
But who are they?
Times Sport’s Alexis Kayinamura takes us through the profiles for each member of the Rwandan squad.
Héritier Gatare Ndahiriwe
Age: 16
Position: Defender
Club: Gikondo Football Center
With his strong defensive skills and impeccable timing, Ndahiriwe has shown that is destined to become a defender destined for greatness, a football prospect who could bring value to the Amavubi at the back in the future.
The youngster’s dedication and determination make him a valuable asset to the team.
Elie Ishimwe
Age: 14
Position: Midfielder
Club: Tsinda Batsinde Academy
Ishimwe brings creativity and finesse to the game from the midfield. He may be the youngest in the squad but his precise passes, vision, ability to read the game and exceptional ball possession make him a player to watch at the tournament.
Abdourahim Hategekimana
Age: 15
Position: Forward
Club: Tigre Academy
Hategekimana is a dynamic forward who has potential to establish himself as a goal-scoring machine thanks to his pace, speed and clinical finishing.
Born on June 6, 2008, Hategekimana is, in his nature, a striker who is always hungry for goals, ready to send every single occasion at the back of the net.
One to keep a keen eye on in Munich.
Alex Twagirihirwe
Age: 16
Position: Defender
Club: Rulindo Football Center
At his age, Twagirihirwe is already a centre back who is strong mentally and can handle pressure from attack. His commanding presence and impeccable tackling give him credit a centre back of his age deserves.
The youngster is a true leader on the pitch. His unwavering commitment to the game puts makes him a formidable force in the backline.
Djibril Sheja
Age: 16
Position: Left back
Club: PSG Academy Rwanda
Playing well in different positions, as a left back or a midfielder, gave coaches arguably an additional reason to select Sheja in the Rwandan team set to compete in the Bayern Munich Youth Cup.
Known for his pace and impeccable defensive skills, the youngster is a tough opponent to beat.
Sheja’s versatility and ability to contribute both defensively and offensively make him an exciting player to watch.
Thierry Byiringiro
Age: 16
Position: Midfielder
Club: Revelation Football Center
Byiringiro possesses exceptional passing ability and intelligent movement while he can perfectly orchestrate the team&039;s attacks from the buildup as well.
With his technical skills, dribbles and tactical ability, the Revelation Football Center can become a midfield engine for his team.
Anselme Ntwali
Age: 16
Position: Right back
Club: Gorilla Football Academy
Known for his tireless running and solid defensive skills, Ntwali is a reliable presence on the right flank.
His work rate speaks for him.
Edison Intwarane
Age: 16
Position: Defender
Club: Rutsiro Youth Center
Intwarane has proved coaches that he is a defensive stalwart during the nationwide selection.
His aerials have become an added value to his qualities with which opponents can rarely beat him to the ball.
Cedric Mutangana
Age: 16
Position: Goalkeeper
Club: The Winners FC
Mutangana is an exceptional goalkeeping talent thanks to his remarkable agility and goalkeeping decisions between the posts.
He made a number of crucial saves that convinced the German coaches to select him for the Bayern Munich Youth Cup tournament. He earned it.
With his quick reflexes between the posts justifies why the shot stopper is a vital asset to the team.
Barthazal Ndayishimiye
Age: 16
Position: Left back
Club: The Winners FC
With his speed, defensive prowess, and well-timed tackling, Ndayishimiye effectively shuts down opponents' attacks from the right wing.
His ability in delivering accurate crosses also adds an extra dimension to his team's gameplay. A rising star to watch out as well.