Rayon Sports forward Gloire Tambwe has insisted that his side will not give up on the title race, despite trailing APR FC by eight points.

The Burundi international was on target as the Blues defeated Amagaju FC 2-0 on Sunday at Kamena Stadium in Huye, keeping their slim title hopes alive. The gap could be reduced to five points if they beat APR FC when the two sides renew their rivalry on Saturday, May 2, at Amahoro Stadium.

Tambwe believes the team has returned from Huye with a clear ambition—to defeat APR and reignite their title challenge.

"Our job is to work hard and try to win our games, which will help us reduce the gap. We, as players, know it will be a tough match, but we owe our fans a victory,” Tambwe said.

"I’m happy to score and help the team get all three points today, but our focus now is on securing another three points against APR.”

Rayon Sports are winless in their last six meetings with APR FC across all competitions, with three losses and three draws. Their last victory over the army side came on August 12, 2023, when they won 3-0 in the FERWAFA Super Cup at Kigali Pele Stadium.

"We owe it to our supporters to beat APR. It’s our responsibility to fight for all three points. We are building a strong mentality, and we believe we can overcome them,” Tambwe added ahead of the derby.

Meanwhile, the match will mark Francis Haringingo’s first derby against APR FC since returning to Rayon Sports in March.