Kiyovu SC’s long-awaited return to glory was met with jubilant scenes on Sunday evening as players, coaches and supporters celebrated a historic 1-0 victory over Police FC in the 2026 FERWAFA Super Cup at Kigali Pelé Stadium. The triumph ended the Green Baggies’ 32-year wait for a major FERWAFA-organised trophy and gave them the first silverware of the new domestic season, along with a Rwf40 million prize. The decisive moment came in the 84th minute when new signing Hakim Hamiss produced a spectacular bicycle kick to settle a tightly contested match. For Hamiss, scoring the winning goal on his debut capped a remarkable week after his transfer from Gasogi United was delayed by a dispute that threatened to prevent him from featuring. “I am very happy and grateful. It has been a challenging few weeks, and there were moments when I did not know if I would even be available to play today,” Hamiss said. “To make my debut, score the winning goal and help Kiyovu win a trophy is something I will never forget. This victory belongs to the supporters because they have waited a long time for moments like this.” Hamiss said he reacted instinctively when the ball arrived in the box before attempting the spectacular finish. “Everything happened very quickly. I saw the ball coming and decided to take a chance. Fortunately, I connected well and saw it go into the net. It is probably one of the most important goals of my career so far,” he said. The victory provided an early boost for Kiyovu under English coach Mark Harrison, who praised his players for their resilience and discipline. “This is a special moment for the club, the players and the supporters. We knew we were facing a very strong Police FC side, but the team showed character, discipline and belief from the first minute to the last,” Harrison said. “When I arrived, I understood the history of this club and the expectations that come with it. Winning a trophy this early is important, but it is only the beginning. We want to build a team that can compete consistently and challenge for every competition.” Harrison also praised Hamiss for delivering despite the uncertainty surrounding his availability. “Hakim showed why we wanted him. Goals like that do not come by accident. He worked hard all game and produced a moment of quality when we needed it most. I am delighted for him because he has gone through a difficult period and today he was rewarded,” he added. While Hamiss grabbed the headlines, goalkeeper Bienvenue Désiré Djayoyang played an equally important role in Kiyovu’s victory. Police FC created the better chances in the first half, but Djayoyang kept them at bay, producing an excellent save to deny Keffa Tangara and preserve the scoreless draw. “We knew Police FC would come at us strongly because they have quality players in attack,” Djayoyang said. “The save against Tangara was important, but I always say that defending is a team effort. The defenders protected me well and everyone worked hard for this result.” The goalkeeper said the trophy was a reward for the team’s hard work and a special moment for supporters who have endured years without major silverware. “Winning a trophy after such a long period means a lot to everyone associated with Kiyovu. We understand what this club represents and how much the fans have suffered. Today we gave them something to celebrate,” he said. Kiyovu players and supporters celebrated long after the final whistle, with many fans remaining inside Kigali Pelé Stadium after the trophy presentation. The triumph has raised expectations around the Mumena-based club, who are also seeking their first Rwanda Premier League title since 1993. Harrison, however, urged his players to remain focused as they prepare for the new campaign. “Trophies create belief,” he said. “The challenge now is to remain humble, continue working hard and make sure this success becomes the start of something bigger for SC Kiyovu.”
