Rwanda’s campaign for a place in Africa Group III took a hit on Thursday after losing all three matches against unbeaten Togo in their opening playoff match at the 2025 Billie Jean King Cup Africa Group IV tournament in Kigali.

Gisèle Umumararungu posed a big challenge against Togo’s Ayawavi Dotse but still lost the first singles match in the three sets (1-6, 6-2, 6-2)

Hopes were on Lia Kaishiki Mosimann to avenge for Umumararungu just like she did when Rwanda beat Senegal in the final group match on Wednesday, July 16. However, Togo proved their mettle yet in the second match as she was overwhelmed by Ami Diwilinga Grace Dougah in straight sets (6-2, 6-2) to secure the win.

Dougah again partnered with Valentine Talaki to defeat Rwanda’s Olive Tuyisenge and Sonia Tuyishimwe in straight sets 6-2, 6-1 to stay unbeaten in the match.

Despite the loss, Rwanda remain in contention for promotion as the round-robin playoff format continues. They will now need to beat Cameroon on Friday, July 18, and leave it for the latter’s match against Togo in Saturday to decide who finish at the top of Africa Group IV and secure Group III promotion.