Red Arrows FC, the reigning champions of the Zambia Premier League, clinched the CECAFA Kagame Cup 2024 title by defeating APR FC of Rwanda 10-9 in a penalty shootout.
The match, held at KMC Stadium in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, concluded 1-1 after 120 minutes of play.
The action started early, with APR FC’s goalkeeper Pavelh Ndizila saving a penalty from Ciel Ebengo Ngwenya in the 7th minute, following a foul on Antony Shipanuka in the box. The referee, Ahmed Arajiga of Tanzania, awarded the penalty.
Despite the early scare, APR FC settled into the game and began to dominate. Their captain, Claude Niyomugabo, nearly equalized, but his shot was saved by Red Arrows’ goalkeeper, Charles Kalumba.
In the second half, against the run of play, Red Arrows took the lead in the 72nd minute. Ricky Banda capitalized on a defensive error to slot the ball home. APR FC continued to push forward and found an equalizer in added time through substitute Mamadou Sy.
With no goals in extra time, the match proceeded to penalties. All ten Red Arrows players converted their penalties, while APR’s Arsene Tuyisenge missed his, sending the Zambian side into jubilant celebrations.
“We are champions and God is good. We started the tournament struggling, but we are now the champions,” said a delighted Paul Katema, captain of Red Arrows. Coach Chisi Mbewe praised his team’s discipline and fighting spirit, saying, “They fought as a team and we are happy to win the Cup.”
APR’s captain, Claude Niyomugabo, expressed his disappointment: “We tried to fight and managed to equalize, but failed in the penalties.”
In the third-place play-off, Al Hilal defeated fellow Sudan Premier League side Hay Al Wadi 3-2 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in regular time.
The champions walked away with a trophy, medals, and $30,000 in prize money. The runners-up received silver medals and $20,000, while the third-placed team took home $10,000.
https://sportsnation.co.ug/2024/07/22/red-arrows-crowned-cecafa-club-cup-champions/
