APR Volleyball Club on Sunday, July 16, won the 2023 Amical des Sportifs de Bujumbura trophy after coming from two sets down to secure a 3-2 victory over Burundian side Rukinzo VC in the final.

In an eye-catching match that lasted 2 hours and 45 minutes, APR defeated Rukinzo VC 3-2 in a thrilling five-setter, denying their opponents any chance of winning the final.

Rukinzo were leading with two easy sets 25-19, 25-17 before the military side responded with 25-23, 25-22 in a quick turnaround comeback to force the game to the fifth and decisive set which they eventually won 15-9 to clinch the title.

APR reached the final after beating hosts Amical des Sportifs de Bujumbura 3-1 while Rukinzo beat Rwanda side Police 3-1.

This is APR’s second title under new head coach Sammy Mulinge who rejoined the club last month. The club also won the Liberation Volleyball tournament earlier this month after a 3-1 victory over Gisagara VC.

Organized annually by Amical des Sportifs de Bujumbura, the tournament attracted 12 clubs from Burundi, Uganda and Rwanda competing in both professional and veteran categories.

Rwanda was represented by APR, Police and KVC while Veterans of Petit Seminar de Butare won the veterans tourney.