Republican Guards (RG) were crowned champions of the 2026 RDF Inter-Force men’s football tournament after edging Special Operations Force (SOF) 1–0 in a tightly contested final at Kigali Pele Stadium on Saturday.

The final was a tense affair from the opening whistle, with both sides adopting a cautious approach. RG enjoyed more possession in the early stages and created the first clear chances, putting SOF’s defence under sustained pressure.

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In the 12th minute, SOF goalkeeper Elia Ndayishimiye produced a crucial save to deny a powerful RG effort and keep the score level. Minutes later, RG threatened again from a free kick that rattled the defensive wall, but SOF held firm.

SOF gradually grew into the contest and came close in the 37th minute when Eric Mugabo was denied by RG’s goalkeeper. The half was also disrupted by injuries, including one to Ndayishimiye, but the breakthrough finally arrived in the 42nd minute.

Pierre Ndagijimana calmly converted from the penalty spot after an RG attacker was fouled inside the box, handing RG a 1–0 lead—a goal that ultimately proved decisive.

SOF pushed forward aggressively after the break, making early substitutions to inject fresh energy into their attack. Despite dominating possession in the second half and creating several chances, they were unable to breach RG’s well-organised defence.

As the match entered its closing stages, RG remained resolute, frustrating SOF’s attempts to equalise and seeing out a narrow but deserved victory.

Speaking at the event, Juvenal Marizamunda from the Ministry of Defence highlighted the importance of the competition in promoting physical fitness, teamwork, camaraderie, morale, and a winning spirit within the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF).

The RDF Inter-Force Competition began at unit level in November 2025 and features both men and women competing across multiple disciplines, including football, basketball, volleyball, handball, netball, athletics, and shooting.