Rwandan champions APR FC are set to face a formidable challenge in the 2024/25 CAF Champions League, where they will meet Azam FC in the first preliminary round.
Following a disappointing campaign last season, highlighted by a heavy 6-1 defeat to Pyramids FC, APR FC has embarked on a major recruitment drive to overcome the psychological barriers that have hindered Rwandan clubs in African competitions.
This season is a pivotal opportunity for APR to make a significant impact and move past their historical constraints.
In the CAF Confederation Cup, Police FC will also confront a tough challenge as they take on Algerian club CS Constantine in their first preliminary round.
Historical background
APR FC has faced persistent difficulties advancing in the CAF Champions League, with their best performance being a third-round appearance two decades ago under the late (Rtd Cap) Jean Marie Ntagwabira.
Out of their previous 18 appearances, the club has been eliminated in the preliminary, first, or second rounds 17 times.
These statistics cast a long shadow over both players and fans, fostering a mindset that often doubts their ability to succeed at higher levels.
This psychological challenge is further exacerbated by the general struggles of Rwandan clubs, which have regularly fallen short against more seasoned African teams.
In an effort to overcome these historical obstacles, APR FC has undertaken a major squad overhaul. The acquisitions of Ghanaian midfielders Seidu Yassif Dauda and Richmond Lamptey, along with Mauritanian forward Mamadou Sy, reflect a strategic shift aimed at enhancing their competitiveness.
The new recruits bring not just talent but also valuable experience from high-stakes games, crucial for developing a winning mindset.
Among the fresh additions are Arsene Tuyisenge, Frodouard Mugiraneza, Olivier Dushimimana, and Gilbert Byiringiro. Coach Darko Novic is now tasked with transforming this new lineup into a successful team.
These players are participating in the 2024 CECAFA Kagame Cup, which is being held in Tanzania and Zanzibar. APR is set to face Al Hilal of Sudan in the semi-finals on Friday, July 19, in Dar es Salaam, at the Azam stadium.
Performing well in this tournament will help Novic enhance team unity and build a competitive edge before the Champions League begins in September.
Securing the Kagame Cup could offer a significant psychological boost, reinforcing confidence and purpose.
Despite their familiarity with Azam, APR must remain focused to avoid any potential complacency.
Novic and his staff need to emphasize the importance of treating every match with seriousness and determination, regardless of the opponent’s profile.
The successful integration of the new signings into the team’s strategy will be essential, and Novic must ensure they connect well with the current squad to maximize their effectiveness.
change in perspective
A key challenge for the APR coach is tackling the mental aspects of competing at the continental level.
Overcoming psychological hurdles is crucial; players need to develop confidence in their ability to perform at a higher standard. This goes beyond technical skills and includes mental conditioning.
Involving sports psychologists or adding mental resilience training to their routines could help players handle pressure better and make sound decisions under stress.
It’s important for APR to create a winning culture that influences every facet of the club.
By focusing on fostering a winning mindset, APR can begin to change the narrative for Rwandan clubs in Africa.
A strong start in the Champions League can boost fan enthusiasm and inspire the players, creating a positive cycle that enhances confidence.
A real statement of intent
This season must be a defining moment for APR FC. With a revamped squad, careful preparation, and a strong emphasis on psychological resilience, they can set the stage for a successful campaign.
Breaking through the barriers requires more than just talent; it demands a relentless drive for excellence and an unshakable belief in their potential.
While APR has proven themselves as national champions, it’s time to shift focus to a broader vision. Simply participating among the top teams is not enough; they need to move beyond being ‘nearly men.’
This year is a pivotal point in their journey to not only make an impact in the CAF Champions League but also to set a new standard for Rwandan football on the African stage.
APR has secured the Rwandan league title a record 22 times, including the last five consecutively, as well as winning the Peace Cup 13 times and the Cecafa Kagame Cup three times, with their most recent victory in that competition occurring nearly 14 years ago.
For the past 30 years, Rwandan clubs, including APR, Rayon Sports, Mukura, AS Kigali, Etincelles, and the now-defunct Atraco FC, have struggled to make an impact in CAF competitions.
APR has a chance to break this trend with a relatively favorable draw against a regional opponent they are familiar with. However, overcoming this historical challenge will be no easy feat, as Rwandan clubs have often found it difficult to advance in continental tournaments.
Meanwhile, Vincent Mashami’s Police FC, in their second-ever continental appearance, faces a daunting challenge. With minimal experience at this level, they will need considerable luck and resilience to make a mark.