By Francis Onyach - Reporter
Rwanda, 27 November 2025 - Al Hilal were forced to settle for a point on their Rwanda Premier League debut after being held to a 0-0 draw by table-toppers Police FC at Kigali Pelé Stadium on Wednesday evening.
The Sudanese heavyweights arrived in Rwanda riding a wave of confidence following their 2-1 victory over MC Alger in the CAF Champions League group stage, but they could not find a way past a disciplined Police outfit.
Police FC came into the contest determined to protect their impressive start to the league campaign and at least maintain their grip on first place. Al Hilal, however, took early control of proceedings, knocking the ball around with purpose and pinning the hosts back for long stretches of the first half.
Forwards Adama Coulibaly and Steven Ebuela both found themselves in promising positions inside the box, but their finishing let them down as they failed to convert the best openings of the half.
After the break, coach Ben Moussa’s side responded with greater attacking intent, abandoning their cautious approach and stepping higher up the pitch. The likes of Christian Ishimwe, Ani Elijah, Christian Ingabire, and Richard Kilongozi began to influence the game more in the final third, stretching the Al Hilal backline and testing their concentration.
Despite creating several half-chances, Police FC also lacked the clinical edge required to tilt the contest in their favour, with the final pass or shot often missing the mark.
Both teams continued to push for a late winner in the closing stages, but goalkeepers and defenders on either side held firm to ensure the game finished goalless. The result secures Al Hilal’s first point in the Rwanda Premier League while extending Police FC’s unbeaten run and keeping them at the summit of the standings with 21 points from nine matches.
Gasogi United remain in second place on 15 points from eight games as the chase behind the leaders continues to intensify. Police FC are scheduled to return to league duty on Sunday when they take on Musanze FC, a fixture that offers them another opportunity to consolidate their advantage at the top of the table.
Both Al Hilal and Al Merrikh were granted special permission by CAF and FIFA to compete in the Rwanda Premier League after they were displaced by the ongoing civil war that has halted all domestic football in Sudan.
The historic rivals after they relocated to Kigali now can continue playing competitive matches in this 2025/26 season.
