Rwandan midfielder David Niyo has expressed his delight after scoring his first goal for Veres Rivne in the club’s emphatic 4-1 victory over Inhulets in the first round of the Ukrainian Cup.
Niyo started the match and produced a stunning long-range strike to open his goalscoring account for the Ukrainian Premier League side. His goal helped Veres Rivne secure a place in the next round of the competition.
For Niyo, who has steadily established himself as an important member of the squad, the goal marked a significant milestone in his young career.
"This is a wonderful moment for me because it is my first goal for Veres Rivne. I am very happy to help the team win and progress in the competition,” Niyo said after the match.
"I have been waiting for this moment. Every player wants to score, and for me to score my first goal for the club in such a game makes it even more special.”
Since joining Veres Rivne, Niyo has continued to adapt to the demands of European football, gradually earning his place in the team and gaining valuable experience in one of Eastern Europe’s competitive leagues.
The midfielder credited his teammates and coaching staff for helping him settle into life in Ukraine.
"I want to thank my teammates, coaches and everyone at the club. They have supported me from the first day and helped me adapt to a new environment. This goal is for them as much as it is for me,” he said.
"I always try to work hard in training and improve every day. This goal gives me confidence, but there is still a lot more I want to achieve.”
Niyo hopes his first goal will be the beginning of a productive spell in front of goal as he looks to make an even greater contribution to Veres Rivne.
"I hope this is just the beginning. My aim is to keep helping the team, whether through goals, assists or my work in midfield. The most important thing is that the team keeps winning,” he said.
Born and raised in Byangabo Sector, Musanze District, Niyo developed his football skills at the APR FC Academy (Intare) before joining Kiyovu Sports on loan in 2025 to gain valuable first-team experience.
He joined Veres Rivne in February on a five-year deal after impressing during his spell with Kiyovu Sports.