Rwanda head coach Stephen Constantine remains confident that Amavubi can bounce back and revive their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualification campaign when they host Mali in Kigali on November 17. Rwanda twice took the lead at the Stade du 26-Mars but were ultimately undone by an 84th-minute winner as Mali maintained their perfect winning run in the Group K qualifiers. Despite the setback, Constantine believes the return fixture at Amahoro Stadium offers his side an ideal opportunity to respond, regain momentum and strengthen their hopes of qualifying for the continental showpiece. “We can turn the tables around in Kigali,” Constantine said, maintaining the positive outlook he had expressed ahead of the double-header against the West African giants. Reflecting on the defeat in Bamako, Constantine acknowledged that his team would need to address a few shortcomings before the return leg but remained encouraged by the atmosphere within the squad. “We have to correct a few mistakes before hosting Mali in the return leg. The atmosphere in camp is probably one of the best we’ve had across all four camps. I don’t think we have a problem. We are looking forward to the next match,” he said. “It won’t be easy, but we will be ready. We call on the fans to come and support our team. I expect them to turn up, and we will fight in every game.” Although Mali are widely regarded as one of Africa’s strongest sides, and Rwanda had never beaten them in a competitive encounter, Constantine insisted that Amavubi would continue fighting for every available point. The coach has also praised the spirit within the squad, describing the current atmosphere as the best he has experienced since returning to lead the national team. That determination was evident in Bamako, where Rwanda pushed the hosts all the way despite spending long periods without possession. Despite the loss, Rwanda remain second in Group K with six points from three matches, three behind leaders Mali, who have collected nine points from as many games. Cape Verde’s 4-2 victory over Liberia keeps them third on three points, while Liberia remain bottom without a point. Rwanda will have their opportunity to respond when they welcome Mali for the return leg on Tuesday, November 17. A victory would see Rwanda draw level with Mali on nine points with two matches remaining in March 2027, keeping their hopes of securing a first AFCON appearance since 2004 firmly alive.
