Al-Merreikh became the first Sudanese club to participate in an official Rwanda Premier League fixture when they defeated Kiyovu SC 2–0 at Kigali Pele Stadium on Monday, November 24. The match marked the club’s debut in the league after the Confederation of African Football (CAF) granted them, and Al Hilal SC, permission to compete in Rwanda’s top tier league. The two teams relocated to Rwanda after football activities in Sudan were suspended due to the ongoing civil war. Al-Merreikh’s victory generated widespread excitement among Sudanese fans living in Rwanda, who turned out to support their team, turning the match into a heartfelt reunion. Times Sport looks at key highlights learnt from the match. Few but passionate spectators Al-Merreikh fans were thrilled to see their club back in action, and the players shared the same excitement. The long-awaited reunion proved rewarding as the team began their campaign with a convincing win over Kiyovu. The atmosphere at the stadium was unique. Although the crowd was not large, the supporters who attended cheered passionately from the first minute to the final whistle, creating an emotional and spirited environment. ALSO: We haven’t seen this team in a while—Sudanese fans welcome Al-Merreikh to Rwanda The bond between the team and its supporters was evident, with players applauding the fans throughout the match in appreciation of their unwavering encouragement. In addition, a “Thank You Rwanda” banner held by the fans carried a particularly powerful message of gratitude, expressing deep appreciation to the host nation for welcoming the two Sudanese clubs into its top-flight league. Quick, attacking football Al-Merreikh displayed an aggressive, high-pressing attacking style that Francis Haringingo and his Kiyovu side struggled to cope with throughout the match. The opening goal came in the 56th minute when Daouda Ba unleashed a powerful long-range strike that found the back of the net. The second goal was a product of Al-Merreikh’s relentless pressing. Mohammed Teya Abudegen received a pass from the left inside the box, turned sharply, and fired home in the 86th minute to seal the victory. Many coaches in the local top tier often opt to “park the bus” when under pressure, but such a defensive approach appears unlikely to succeed against Al-Merreikh’s intensity and forward-driven style of play. Darko Novic’s return The Serbian coach hardly expected to return to the Rwanda Premier League so soon — and certainly not under such circumstances. Little did he know that Sudanese clubs would one day find a temporary home in Kigali and eventually participate in the same league. Novic, who previously won the league title during his one-year spell with APR FC, is now back on the touchline with Al-Merreikh. Supporters of the Sudanese side are hopeful he can replicate that success and guide the club to similar glory during their stay in Rwanda.
