Iradukunda joins Rwanda squad for Liberia, Cape Verde qualifiers

Rwanda head coach Stephen Constantine has called up Rayon Sports winger Elie Tatou Iradukunda to the senior national team squad for the upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against Liberia and Cape Verde. Iradukunda, who had initially been selected for Eric Nshimiyimana’s Rwanda U23 squad ahead of their upcoming fixtures against Sudan, replaces Keddy Nsanzimfura of Kiyovu SC, who has withdrawn from the senior team with a minor injury. The Rayon Sports winger has established himself as one of the club’s key players since joining the Blues from Mukura Victory Sports. ALSO READ: ‘Our objective is to qualify for AFCON 2027’ — Mickels Iradukunda was among Rayon Sports’ standout performers as the club eliminated Cameroon’s Panthère Sportive du Ndé on away goals to reach the second preliminary round of the CAF Confederation Cup. He was also part of the Rayon Sports side that won the 2026 CECAFA Kagame Cup, further strengthening his case for a place in Constantine’s senior squad. His call-up comes as Amavubi step up preparations for their opening Group K AFCON qualifier against Liberia on September 25. Rwanda will host Liberia at Amahoro Stadium before travelling to Praia to face Cape Verde on September 29. The two matches will mark Rwanda’s opening assignments in Group K, which also includes Mali.