Sudanese clubs will improve the Rwandan league but what if one of them wins the title?

The Rwandan Premier League is set for an unprecedented boost following the decision by Rwanda Football Association (FERWAFA) to admit two Sudanese giants — Al Hilal SC and Al-Merrikh SC – into the league. That boost will be in terms of quality, visibility, and competitiveness. The two clubs, among the most successful in Sudanese football, have been cleared to temporarily relocate their operations to Rwanda due to the ongoing civil war that has halted football activities in Sudan since April 2023. Their inclusion, which comes after a formal application process approved by FERWAFA and the Sudan Football Association, marks a historic moment for Rwandan football. Rwanda FA is only waiting for an approval from the Confederation of African Football allowing the clubs to officially join the league this season. Although a third side, Al Ahli SC Wad Madani, initially received approval as well, the club has since withdrawn its participation, citing “unavoidable reasons,” according to FERWAFA. Then the question is, what happens if, say, Al Hilal or Al-Merrikh wins the league, can they be regarded as Rwandan champions? Do they represent Rwanda in CAF competitions? Unfortunately, the rules of their engagement in the Rwandan league remain sketchy, but the logical answer would be, no — for, a club must be affiliated with that specific country's association to be eligible. Otherwise, a club playing in a domestic league of another country cannot represent that country in an international competition, in this case, the CAF Champions League or Confederation Cup. However, the arrival of Al Hilal and Al-Merrikh promises to inject new energy and competition into the Rwandan Premier League. Their integration will make the league stronger, more competitive, and more attractive to fans. These are clubs with massive fan bases, established footballing cultures, and experience in continental tournaments — both having featured regularly in the CAF Champions League and Confederation Cup. Their technical proficiency, professional management, and quality of players are expected to raise the bar for local clubs such as APR FC, Rayon Sports, Police FC, and AS Kigali. Speaking the press on October 27, Rwanda Premier League boss Hadji Yusuf Mudaheranwa announced that each Rwandan club would receive an additional Rwf4.5 million due to the increased number of fixtures, reflecting the financial benefits of the league’s expansion. For top Rwandan sides like APR FC and Rayon Sports, facing off against Al Hilal and Al-Merrikh will be a test of their technical and tactical capacity. Both Sudanese teams are known for their disciplined defending, quick counterattacks, and physical style of play — attributes that could expose weaknesses in local teams and push them to improve. League champions APR FC, in particular, have dominated local football for years but have struggled to make a significant impact in CAF competitions. The exposure to higher-calibre opposition at home could help them bridge that gap, somehow. Similarly, Rayon Sports, known for their flair and attacking football, will benefit from playing against sides accustomed to CAF-level intensity. Playing against Al Hilal and Al-Merrikh week in, week out will be like having continental football inside our league. It will toughen our teams mentally and physically. Beyond competition, the Sudanese clubs bring with them massive followings — both in Sudan and across the region. Their presence is expected to boost matchday attendance and media coverage and possibly attract new sponsors and broadcast interest. With Sudanese communities across East Africa likely to rally behind their teams, the Rwanda Premier League could gain a wider regional audience. For local clubs and the league, that means more visibility, potential commercial partnerships, and enhanced player marketability. What happens if they win the league? While the excitement is noticeable, and rightly so, the main question was about what would happen if either AL Hilal or Al-Merrikh won the Rwandan league. Mudaheranwa clarified that CAF guidelines will be followed, likely preventing non-Rwandan clubs from taking Rwanda’s continental slots. That say, there would be two titles, one for the foreign team another for best Rwandan club which will ultimately qualify for the CAF Champions League. Even so, their participation will ensure that the eventual Rwandan champions will have truly earned the title after facing some of the best teams in Africa. Ultimately, the integration of Al Hilal and Al-Merrikh into the Rwanda Premier League is a win-win scenario. For the Sudanese clubs, it provides a lifeline to continue playing competitive football amid conflict. For Rwanda, it’s an opportunity to elevate the domestic game, inspire local talent, and showcase the league on a broader African stage.