PHOTOS: Al-Hilal SC crowned honorary champions after 2-1 win over Gasogi United

Al-Hilal SC were crowned honorary champions of the Rwanda Premier League 2025/26 after a 2-1 win over Gasogi United at Kigali Pelé Stadium, completing a historic and dominant debut season.

The Sudanese giants secured the title with three matches still to play, confirming their dominance in the league with 73 points from 31 games. 

Their victory over Gasogi United not only extended their lead over second-placed APR FC but also underlined a season defined by consistency.

Al-Hilal SC needed just one point to confirm the championship but entered the match with intent, fielding a strong lineup that controlled large phases of possession.

The breakthrough came in the 15th minute when Mamudu Kamaradini rose highest to head home after a well-delivered set piece, giving Al-Hilal an early advantage.

Gasogi United, however, showed resilience and created several threatening moments.

Captain Muderi Akbar led their attacking response, forcing key saves from Al-Hilal goalkeeper Soufiane Farid, while Girumugisha Jean Claude also tested the opposition defence with creative midfield play.

The second decisive moment arrived in the 67th minute when Walieldin Daiyeen Pogba calmly converted a penalty after Ousmane Diouf was fouled inside the box by Ngono Guy Hervé.

The goal effectively sealed the title, even though Gasogi United managed a late consolation penalty through Ngono in the 89th minute.

Al-Hilal’s journey in Rwanda began in October 2025 when they were officially admitted as guest competitors in the Rwanda Premier League under a special arrangement by the Rwanda Premier League governing body.

Their participation was designed to strengthen regional football ties, raise competitive standards, and provide a platform for cross-border club development between East and North-East Africa.

From the beginning, Al-Hilal SC established themselves as serious contenders.

Their blend of experienced Sudanese internationals and emerging regional talents allowed them to adapt quickly to Rwanda’s fast-paced and physical style of play.

Early victories against established sides such as Police FC and Etincelles FC set the tone for a dominant campaign.

As the season progressed, Al-Hilal’s tactical structure underlined their superiority.

Strong defensive organisation, efficient counter-attacking play, and clinical finishing helped them build a commanding lead at the top of the table.

By mid-season, they had already emerged as clear favourites for the title.

Football authorities from Rwanda and Sudan, along with representatives from both federations, attended the trophy presentation ceremony at Kigali Pelé Stadium, celebrating what has been described as a milestone in regional football cooperation.

Al-Hilal SC will now return to Sudan to prepare for their domestic playoff competition, while leaving behind a historic legacy in Rwanda as the first guest club to win the league title in such dominant fashion.

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