Ukraine based attacking midfielder David Niyo has earned his first national team call up while Rayon Sports goalkeeper Olivier Kwizera has been dropped from the 31-man squad for the upcoming FIFA Series 2026, scheduled to take place from March 23 to 31 in Kigali
Amavubi assistant coach Eric Nshimiyimana, who selected the squad before Englishman Stephen Constantine’s appointment, explained that the the first the Rwandan goalkeeper to have played in South Africa was dropped due to fitness concerns.
“Joining the national team is a big step for my football career. I have what it takes to build my career and become a big player. I am happy to don my country’s national team colours, but I must stay disciplined to reach another level,” said Niyo.
The 18-year-old Niyo, recently joined NK Veres Rivne in the Ukrainian Premier League from Kiyovu Sports on a five year contract after successfully completing professional trials, becoming only the second Rwandan to join a Ukrainian club after Djihad Bizimana.
During the first half of the Rwanda Premier League campaign, Niyo contributed three goals and four assists for Kiyovu Sports.
Returning to the national setup are Lague Byiringiro of Police FC Rwanda and Hakim Sahabo, who had not been selected by former Amavubi coach Adel Amrouche.
The team is expected to enter residential camp later this week at the FERWAFA Hotel.
Rwanda will open their FIFA Series campaign against Grenada national football team at Amahoro Stadium on March 27.
The two sides are in Group A, alongside Kenya and Estonia national football teamd. Group B will feature Tanzania, Liechtenstein, Aruba, and Macau.
Full Amavubi squad
Goalkeepers
Fiacre Ntwari, Hugo Bigirimana, Patience Niyongira and Adolphe Hakizimana
Defenders
Ange Mutsinzi, Thierry Manzi, Kavita Phanuel Mbaya and Yunusu Nshimiyimana, Emmanuel Imanishimwe, Claude Niyomugabo, Jean Gilbert Byiringiro and Obed Uwumukiza.
Midfielders
Bonheur Mugisha, Djihad Bizimana, Samuel Gueulette, Kevin Muhire, Sven Kalisa, Jean Bosco Ruboneka, Hakim Sahabo and Rene Uwineza.
Forwards
Mickels Joy Slayd, Karl Matteo Ndayishimiye Innocent Nshuti, Mickels Joy Lance, Abeddy Biramahire, Lague Byiringiro, Jojea Kwizera, Mickels Leroy Jacques, Kury Johan Marvin, David Niyo and Gilbert Mugisha.
