APR FC booked their place in the Heroes Cup final with a commanding 3-0 win over AS Kigali at Kigali Pelé Stadium on Wednesday afternoon.
Both sides began on the front foot, showing early intent in an open first half. AS Kigali nearly created a breakthrough in the 19th minute when Ronald Ssekiganda played Hakim Kiwanuka through on goal, but Frank Onyeabor reacted quickly to block the danger.
Dusabimana Olivier Muzungu later drove forward with purpose for AS Kigali, only to be denied by the offside flag as he threatened APR FC’s defence.
In the 28th minute, AS Kigali appealed for a penalty after Tuyisenge Arsène went down inside the box following a challenge from Claude Niyomugabo. The referee waved away the protests, and plays continued.
Tuyisenge was later forced off with an injury and replaced by Pascal Niyonkuru Kabuga as AS Kigali looked to regroup.
APR FC finished the first half strongly, piling pressure on their opponents. William Togui was among those who found space in the final third, but the chances went begging.
The army side came close again shortly after the restart when a defensive error by Mitima Isaac gifted possession to Jean-Gilbert Byiringiro, who set up Kiwanuka. However, the forward dragged his effort wide.
APR FC’s persistence finally paid off in the 59th minute. Kiwanuka made amends by calmly finishing after being picked out by Ssekiganda to break the deadlock.
Five minutes later, the lead was doubled. William Togui showed strength and composure to beat his markers before scoring, following a neat assist from Kiwanuka.
AS Kigali struggled to respond and were further punished in the 78th minute when Jean Bosco Ruboneka added a third, finishing off a move set up by Clément Niyigena.
The result sends APR FC into the final, where they will face the winner of the semi-final between Rayon Sports and Police FC, scheduled for Thursday afternoon at the same venue.
