Midfielder Steve Rubanguka has said he is glad to rejoin Amavubi after missing out on national team duty for the past 12 months. Rubanguka has had a good season at Saudi Arabian second tier side Al Nojoom and his performance has impressed Frank Torsten Spittler who handed him a call up for upcoming March international friendlies against Madagascar and Botswana. The 27-year-old, who joined the camp on Thursday, March 14, told Times Sport that he was delighted to get a callup again, and vowed to prove his worth ahead of the forthcoming friendly matches. ALSO READ: Steve Rubanguka: Cyprus-based player rearing to be the ace of Amavubi midfield “It was an honor for me to return to the national team. I know I have a responsibility to repay the faith the coach has entrusted in me, and in my mind, there is no doubt that I can do better. I am looking forward to helping the team,” Rubanguka said in an interview. “I want to do my best because these are important matches not only for the country but for us, players, as well. It will be a real honor for me to do well in the national team jersey,” he added. The last time Rubanguka played in the national team was June 18, 2023 AFCON qualifier, when Rwanda lost 2-0 against Mozambique, where he played 23 minutes under then head coach Carlos Ferrer. ALSO READ: Players Abroad: Rubanguka excels as most stars struggle for game time He has been playing for Al Nojoom since last year after switching from Zimbru FC. He also had stints with Greek side Karaiskakis, Koninklijke Rupel Boom FC, Patro Eisden and RFC Wetteren of in Belgium. ALSO READ: Karekezi warns Amavubi despite bright start to WC qualifiers Rwanda travels to Madagascar for their friendlies against Madagascar and Botswana which are scheduled between March 18 and 26. Spittler will use the matches to prepare for upcoming 2026 World Cup Africa qualifiers where they visit Benin and Lesotho between June 3 and 11.
