In a surprising move just weeks before the end of the season, Rwanda’s military football club APR FC has parted ways with head coach Darko Nović. The announcement comes with only three matches remaining in the 2024/2025 Primus National League campaign.
Serbian Darko Nović, who had been at the helm for 11 months, led APR FC to notable victories during his tenure, including the 2025 Heroes Cup and the Peace Cup. Under his guidance, the team also reached the final of the 2024 CECAFA Kagame Cup and progressed to the second preliminary round of the CAF Champions League before being eliminated by Egypt’s Pyramids FC.
Despite these accomplishments and the team still in a tight title race — trailing league leaders Rayon Sports by just one point — the club’s management opted for a coaching change. The decision is believed to have been influenced by dissatisfaction with Nović’s style of play, which did not sit well with many fans, even though the team remained competitive.
In the interim, APR FC has appointed a temporary coaching trio: Mugisha Ndoli, head coach of the club’s feeder team Intare FC, and youth team coaches Ngabo Albert and Bizimana Didier. The three conducted training on Tuesday as the club prepares for a crucial match against Gorilla FC on Saturday, part of Match Day 28.
APR FC, currently in second place in the standings, remains in strong contention for the league title. However, the pressure is on for the remaining fixtures as the team looks to finish the season on a high note under interim management.
Novic, a UEFA pro license holder has also previously coached teams including US Monastir of Tunisia and Algerian club ES Setif.
