Sunrise FC moved a step closer to securing promotion back to the BK Pro League after edging Intare FC 3-2 on Sunday.
The Nyagatare-based side now leads the promotion phase standings in the FERWAFA Second Division playoffs with 10 points from five matches, one point ahead of Unity FC.
Sunrise claimed the crucial win thanks to a superb hat-trick from Daniel Ikp Kalu, keeping alive their hopes of an immediate return to Rwanda’s top flight.
After suffering relegation in recent seasons, the club appears determined to bounce back quickly and end a four-year absence from the top division, having last featured in the BK Pro League in 2022.
Ugandan coach Ivan Ntambi, who joined the club in January 2026, has played a significant role in Sunrise’s impressive promotion campaign.
However, their promotion is not yet guaranteed, with Unity FC on nine points and Etoile de l’Est on seven still firmly in contention. Intare FC, meanwhile, are already out of the race after remaining bottom of the standings with just two points.
The final round of matches will determine the two teams that earn promotion to the BK Pro League, with Sunrise, Unity and Etoile de l’Est all still battling for the available spots.
To secure BK Pro League promotion...
Sunrise FC only need a draw in their final playoff match against Etoile de l’Est in Ngoma to seal promotion.
Etoile de l’Est, on the other hand, must win to keep their hopes alive and could still advance on goal difference if other results go in their favor.
Unity FC must beat Intare FC to move to 12 points and secure automatic promotion. However, if Unity fail to win and Etoile de l’Est also drop points, Sunrise will qualify comfortably.
Table
Pos. Team GD Points
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Sunrise FC +2 10
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Unity FC +1 9
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Etoile de l'Est +2 7
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Intare FC -5 2