The 2025–2026 edition of the Peace Cup has reached a decisive and highly anticipated stage following the conclusion of the preliminary round, which has now revealed the final composition of teams set to compete in the Round of 16 (1/8 finals).

After an intense and competitive preliminary phase, eight clubs have successfully secured qualification to join the next round. These teams will now face eight elite sides that were exempted from the preliminary round, having earned that privilege through their outstanding performances in the previous Peace Cup, where they advanced to the quarter-final stage.

The clubs that emerged victorious from the preliminary round and booked their places in the Round of 16 are:

• Bugesera FC

• Marine FC

• City Boys FC

• Gicumbi FC

• Kiyovu Sports

• Muhazi United

• Musanze FC

• Etincelles FC

Notably, Etincelles FC secured qualification under tough circumstances. The club finished level on points and goal difference with Sina Gérard FC. However, Etincelles FC progressed due to a superior away goals record, which proved decisive and underscored the importance of performance away from home in knockout competitions.

The above teams will now be joined by the eight best-performing clubs from the previous Peace Cup, who earned direct qualification to this stage:

• APR FC

• Rayon Sports FC

• Police FC

• Mukura Victory Sports & Loisir

• Gasogi United

• AS Kigali

• Amagaju FC

• Gorilla FC

This blend of emerging challengers and established heavyweights promises a fiercely competitive Round of 16, with clubs eager to assert dominance and pursue national glory.

The official draw for the Round of 16 is scheduled to take place on Friday, 13 February 2025. The draw will determine the matchups and set the stage for what is expected to be an exciting knockout phase filled with high-stakes encounters.

The Peace Cup remains one of Rwanda’s most prestigious football competitions, celebrated for its inclusivity, competitiveness, and historic significance in promoting unity through sport. Beyond national pride, the tournament carries substantial continental importance: the winner of the Peace Cup automatically earns the right to represent Rwanda in the CAF Confederations Cup.

As the competition progresses into the Round of 16, anticipation continues to build among fans, clubs, and stakeholders alike, with every team now just a few steps away from lifting the coveted trophy and securing a place on Africa’s biggest club football stage.