Ahead of Saturday 30, Rwanda, Dr Congo crunch tie in the quarterfinals of the African Nations Championship (CHAN); Rwanda President H.E Paul Kagame today (Thursday 28) hosted the “Amavubi” at state house, Urugwiro Village in Kacyiru, Kigali.

The head of state took the opportunity to thank the team for the far they have reached in the tournament; telling them that as host, they have done Rwanda proud.

“I’d like to thank the players, they reflect the country: proud, hard working, and determined,” Kagame said in a statement.

Johnny McKinstry’s side was the first team to reach the last after registering two valuable wins against Ivory Coast and Gabon before falling to Morocco 4-1 in their last match of group “A”.

The President who is a known lover of the beautiful game and never misses to attend the national team matches, urged the team against complacency as the the task ahead is more tough and requires focus.

“Your success to date is a reflection of all your hard work but the work ahead demands even more from you. To move even further, you will need even more focus and discipline,”

“You are all talented and should aim to fulfill your full potential. You should not be satisfied by anything less than reaching your full potential,”

He assured of the government support and that of the whole nation.

“We are all behind you, the whole country is behind you. You are carrying the name of your country,”

“Know that you have the ability to win this cup but do not behave as if you have already won. Work for it and work as a team.” He concluded.

The president who was accompanied by Sports and Culture minister Juliette Uwacu was presented with a jersey signed by all Amavubi players by Captain Jacques Tuyisenge.

@bonfaceosano

Bonface Osano

African Football Writer contributing @Soka25east | Commentator; appeared on @MySoccerAfrica, @KweseSports, @ntvkenya, others | Keen follower of African Football. E-mail: bonfaceosano@gmail.com