Rwandan champions APR FC face a significant challenge as they prepare for the 2024/25 CAF Champions League against Azam FC in the first preliminary round. Following a dismal campaign last season, marked by a 6-1 defeat to Pyramids FC, the army side has seen a massive recruitment drive aimed at breaking a psychological barrier that has hindered Rwandan clubs on the African stage. For APR, this season represents a critical opportunity to assert themselves and move beyond their historical limitations. In the lesser CAF Confederation Cup, Police FC will have odds staked against them against Algerian club CS Constantine in the first preliminary round. *Historical context APR have struggled to progress in the CAF Champions League, with the furthest they have gone being in the third round, two decades ago, under the late (Rtd Cap) Jean Marie Ntagwabira. In their previous 18 appearances, the club has exited the preliminary or first or second rounds a staggering 17 times. Such statistics weigh heavily on the players and fans alike, contributing to a mentality that often underestimates their capacity to succeed at higher levels. This psychological burden is compounded by the broader challenges faced by Rwandan clubs, which have consistently fallen short against more established African teams. In a bid to (try) overcome these historical shortcomings, APR have undertaken a comprehensive squad overhaul. The signings of Ghanaian midfielders Seidu Yassif Dauda and Richmond Lamptey, along with Mauritanian forward Mamadou Sy, are indicative of a strategic shift aimed at increasing competitiveness. These players bring not only skill but also experience in high-stakes matches, which is crucial for building a winning mentality. Other new signings thus far include Arsene Tuyisenge, Frodouard Mugiraneza, Olivier Dushimimana and Gilbert Byiringiro. The new coach Darko Novic has been entrusted with shaping this new squad into a winning team. The new signings are part of Novic's squad playing at the 2024 CECAFA Kagame Cup taking place in Tanzania and Zanzibar where APR will face Al Hilal of Sudan in the semi-finals on Friday, July 19, in Dar es Salaam, ironically at the Azam stadium. By competing effectively in this pre-season tournament, Novic can foster team cohesion and develop a competitive edge before the Champions League fixtures in September. Winning the Kagame Cup could provide a much-needed psychological boost, reinforcing a sense of purpose and belief in their abilities. Azam presents a relatively favorable matchup for APR, as they are two familiar foes, however, familiarity can breed complacency if not approached with the right mindset. Novic and his coaching staff must emphasize the importance of treating every match with seriousness and determination, regardless of the opponent’s stature. The integration of new signings into the tactical framework will be crucial; Novic needs to ensure that they gel with the existing squad to maximize their potential. *Mindset shift One of the biggest challenges the APR coach must confront is the mental aspect of competing at the continental level. Psychological barriers can be formidable; players must cultivate a belief that they can perform at a higher standard. This involves not just technical training but also mental conditioning. Engaging sports psychologists or incorporating mental resilience training into their routine could help the players better handle pressure situations and improve their decision-making under stress. It’s essential for APR to foster a culture of winning that permeates all levels of the club. By emphasizing a commitment to instilling a winning mentality, APR can start to change the narrative surrounding Rwandan clubs in Africa. A strong start in the Champions League can galvanize fans and inspire the players, creating a positive feedback loop that reinforces confidence. *A real statement of intent This season must serve as a statement of intent for APR FC. The combination of a revitalized squad, strategic preparation, and a strong focus on psychological resilience can pave the way for a successful campaign. Breaking the glass ceiling requires more than just talent; it demands a relentless pursuit of excellence and an unwavering belief in the possibility of success. APR are winners albeit at the national level, but the time is now to switch the mind to the bigger picture, for, there is no value in just making the numbers at the table of the big boys. Time for being ‘nearly men’ must end. This year represents a critical juncture in their quest to not only succeed in the CAF Champions League but to also set a precedent for Rwandan football on the African stage. APR have won the Rwandan league a record 22 times, including the last five in a row, 13 Peace Cup (formerly Rwanda Cup) and Cecafa Kagame Cup on three occasions, the most recent coming nearly 14 years ago. Over the past 30 years, Rwandan clubs, meaning all those that have played in CAF competitions, among them APR, Rayon Sports, Mukura, AS Kigali, Etincelles and Atraco FC (now defunct), have found it had hard to compete. Can APR break that jinx, given that they have faced a relatively manageable tie against a regional opponent they well know about? Easier said than done, though, for, we have been this roadway far too long to assume anything for Rwandan clubs on the continental stage. As for Vincent Mashami's Police FC, making only a second appearance on the continent, we can only wish them good luck, for, with so little experience at this level, it will be a tough task.
