Gisagara VC edged Kepler VC in a thrilling five-set contest, winning 26–24, 25–17, 19–25, 23–25, 20–18 in a National Volleyball League fixture played on Friday at Petit Stade. The victory keeps the Villagers at the summit of the regular-season standings after 12 rounds of the campaign. Gisagara VC appeared on course for a comfortable straight-sets win after taking the opening two sets 26–24 and 25–17. However, Kepler, fresh from lifting the 2026 Heroes Cup, responded with tactical adjustments that turned the momentum of the match. ALSO READ: Can Yakan’s Gisagara VC rule Rwandan volleyball again? Inspired by Puerto Rican opposite hitter Jair Santiago and Wicklif Dusenge, Kepler’s improved attacking display disrupted Gisagara’s reception. Winning the third set 25–19 proved to be a turning point as the students grew in confidence. Kepler maintained the pressure in the fourth set, edging it 25–23 to force a decisive tie-breaker. In the fifth set, Gisagara showed composure and discipline, sticking to their system as the contest stretched beyond the 15-point mark. Yakan Guma’s side eventually prevailed 20–18, securing a hard-fought win and confirming their place in the playoffs. “This game wasn’t easy for us, but in the end, it’s ours,” said club captain Sylvestre Ndayisaba. “With three matches still to play, it’s still early to say we are already in the playoffs.” Gisagara have three matches remaining against Kirehe VC, REG VC, and Kigali VC to conclude the regular season. Other results In an earlier men’s fixture, Rwanda Energy Group (REG) picked up three crucial points after defeating Rwanda Polytechnic Ngoma 3–1 (25–15, 25–17, 25–27, 25–21), keeping their playoff hopes alive despite sitting fifth, behind Police VC and Kepler VC. ALSO READ: REG on the brink as race for volleyball league playoffs heats up In the women’s category, Guinean outside hitter Binta Fatoumata starred as Kepler WVC claimed a 3–1 victory (17–25, 25–23, 25–12, 25–22) over Police WVC, marking Kepler’s first win against the law enforcers since the start of the 2025/26 season. The volleyball spectacle continues on Saturday, February 7, at Ste. Famille Gymnasium. Women APR WVC vs Ruhango WVC – 11am RRA vs EAUR– 1pm Men APR VC vs Kirehe VC – 3pm EAUR vs Kepler VC – 5pm
