APR FC head coach Abderrahim Taleb has set his sights on main the membership to the 2026 CECAFA Kagame Cup title, with the regional event scheduled to happen in Kigali from July 24 to August 7.
APR got here near lifting the trophy lately, ending runners-up in 2024 earlier than securing third place within the 2025 version.
With the event returning to Kigali, Taleb, whose contract has been prolonged till 2028, believes his aspect has what it takes to go one step additional and win the title for the primary time since 2010.
ALSO READ: APR FC prolong Taleb's contract after spectacular debut season
The Moroccan tactician mentioned his new deal displays the ambitions he shares with the membership, including that lifting the CECAFA Kagame Cup would mark an necessary milestone within the workforce's long-term undertaking.
“This extension permits us to work with readability and confidence,” Taleb mentioned. “When there may be belief between the membership and the technical workforce, you may focus totally on outcomes. Our goal within the CECAFA Kagame Cup is evident—we need to win it.
“If you prolong your contract, you additionally prolong accountability. The badge calls for that you just compete for trophies.”
The Rwandan champions will symbolize the nation alongside rivals Rayon Sports activities within the 12-team event. The opposite members are Simba SC and Singida Black Stars (Tanzania), Vipers SC (Uganda), Al Hilal SC and Al Merrikh SC (Sudan), Gor Mahia (Kenya), Mogadishu Metropolis FC (Somalia), Jamus SC (South Sudan), FC Garde Républicaine (Djibouti), and KVZ FC (Zanzibar).
The official draw might be held on Friday, July 10, within the Amahoro Stadium convention room, with the groups to be divided into three teams of 4.
In keeping with CECAFA Competitions Supervisor Yusuf Mossi, the winners of every group and the three greatest runners-up will advance to the semi-finals.
APR will head into the event among the many favourites, a standing Taleb says comes naturally with the membership's stature and expectations.
“The gamers already perceive our tactical concepts and expectations,” Taleb defined. “In a contest like this, that understanding could make the distinction.”
Reflecting on his contract extension, Taleb insisted it shouldn’t be considered as a reward that brings consolation.
“An extension doesn’t imply rest,” he mentioned. “It means extra work and better requirements.”
Whereas profitable the regional title stays the rapid goal, Taleb believes the CECAFA Kagame Cup additionally offers an necessary alternative to measure APR's progress forward of continental assignments.
“Regional tournaments check your degree,” he mentioned. “When you carry out nicely right here, it provides confidence for larger competitions.”
