APR FC defied expectations and secured a 2-1 aggregate victory over Tanzanian side Azam, advancing to the next round of the 2024 CAF Champions League.
Under Darko Novic’s guidance, APR FC overcame a 1-0 first-leg deficit in Tanzania by defeating Azam 2-0 in the second leg, held in Kigali on Saturday, August 24.
Midfielder Bosco Ruboneka opened the scoring in the 44th minute, followed by forward Gilbert Mugisha, who doubled the lead in the 61st minute, sealing Azam’s exit from the competition.
APR FC needed a two-goal margin to progress, and despite a slow start with few clear chances, the team capitalized on their superior possession and attacking strength to break through in the first 30 minutes.
Their relentless pressing paid off in the 44th minute when Ruboneka broke the deadlock, finishing off a superb cross from Claude Niyomugabo to level the aggregate score at 1-1 just before halftime.
In the second half, Azam appeared more threatening in their search for an equalizer, but APR remained solid and well-organized defensively.
Azam’s Cheiks Sidibe, Pascal Msindo, and Gibril Sillah all had opportunities to score but missed the target, while Fei Toto squandered a chance to equalize in the 60th minute.
Azam’s time-wasting was punished when Mugisha doubled APR’s lead after a miscommunication between Azam’s defenders and goalkeeper Mohamed Mustapha.
After scoring the second goal, APR appeared more relaxed, taking control of the game. Coach Novic adjusted his tactics, shifting to a more defensive strategy and launching quick counterattacks as Azam tried to dominate possession in the closing stages.
APR made several substitutions: Mamadou Lamine Bah was replaced by Richmond Lamptey, Seidu Dauda Mugisha and Mamadou Sy made way for Ramadhan Niyibizi and Victor Mbaoma, and Aliou Souane came on after Taddeo Lwanga was forced off due to injury.
Despite Azam’s continued efforts to find an equalizer, APR held firm, keeping a clean sheet and securing their place in the second round.
With Azam eliminated, APR now faces a challenging task against Pyramids in the second and final round, aiming to reach the group stages.
