APR FC captain Claude Niyomugabo has revealed that reaching the group stage of the CAF Champions League remains his biggest dream, describing it as a personal mission he hopes to accomplish before leaving the club. APR recently completed a second consecutive domestic double after adding the 2026 Peace Cup title to the league crown they secured last week. The army side lifted the Peace Cup after defeating rivals Rayon Sports 4–2 on penalties following a 1–1 draw in the final played on Saturday, May 23, at Amahoro Stadium. Despite dominating domestic football for years, APR are yet to reach the CAF Champions League group stage since joining the top flight in 1995, and Niyomugabo admitted the achievement remains one of his greatest ambitions. “In my heart, I feel I owe APR FC qualification to the CAF Champions League group stage,” he said. “Other African clubs that are now regulars at that level started from humble beginnings. With belief and hard work, it is possible for us too.” The defender added that failing to achieve the milestone with APR would remain one of the biggest regrets of his career. “If I leave APR FC without reaching the group stages, it will stay with me forever. I would regret it deeply. It is something I truly want to achieve.” Niyomugabo also praised the club’s success this season, saying everyone associated with APR has every reason to celebrate. “Players, club leaders and supporters — every APR FC fan wherever they are — has every reason to be happy.” The 2025/26 CAF Champions League season concluded on Sunday, with Mamelodi Sundowns capturing their second title after holding AS FAR to a 1-1 draw in Morocco to win the final 2-1 across two legs.
