Sudanese champions Al-Hilal will play their matches in the new edition of the CAF Champions League at Amahoro Stadium in Kigali, Rwanda, as the club continue preparations for their next African campaign.
The decision means Al-Hilal will return to the venue used for their group-stage and quarter-final fixtures in the previous edition of the competition.
The club have also confirmed the appointment of Congolese coach Ghazi Boukassa, who will oversee the reserve side and youth age groups as part of a wider plan to strengthen the club’s long-term structure.
Al-Hilal announced Boukassa’s arrival on Saturday, 4 July, with the coach set to travel to Kigali to supervise the reserve team’s preparations for the East and Central Africa Championship, known as CECAFA.
The tournament is scheduled to begin on 24 July.
Kigali Chosen for Continuity
Amahoro Stadium was selected after Al-Hilal considered the benefits of remaining in a familiar environment in Rwanda.
The club have previously competed in the Rwandan league and played African matches in Kigali, allowing them to establish working arrangements and receive logistical support from the Rwandan Football Federation.
Using Amahoro Stadium will also reduce the need for repeated travel between Sudan and Rwanda while the team continue their domestic commitments.
The stadium is located in Kigali, the capital of Rwanda, and will again serve as Al-Hilal’s base for continental fixtures.
The move is intended to provide greater stability for the team as it prepares to compete in the CAF Champions League, with the club aiming to build on its recent African performances.
Al-Hilal’s first team will continue training while the club finalises the appointment of its senior technical staff.
Boukassa Begins Youth-Team Role
Boukassa’s appointment represents a separate but related part of Al-Hilal’s planning for the new season.
The Congolese coach has been given responsibility for the reserve team and youth categories, with the club seeking to develop players for the future.
After signing his contract, Boukassa was instructed by the club’s management to travel to Kigali and begin work with the reserve squad.
His immediate task will be to prepare the team for CECAFA, which begins later this month.
The first team, meanwhile, remain focused on their preparations for the CAF Champions League as the club work to resolve the senior coaching situation.
Leadership Election Approaches
Al-Hilal’s administrative leadership are also preparing for an important period away from the pitch.
The administration led by president Hisham Al-Subat intends to continue its work after the end of its current term by contesting the club’s General Assembly elections.
The vote to elect a new administration is scheduled for 21 July.
With a new youth coach appointed, a continental home venue confirmed and senior-team preparations under way, Al-Hilal are seeking to maintain momentum as they enter another demanding season in African football.
