Rwanda came from behind to beat Cape Verde 2-1 in Praia, securing their first-ever victory over the Blue Sharks in a competitive qualifying campaign for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
Cape Verde had appeared to rescue a point after recovering from conceding the opening goal before half-time. However, the hosts were unable to hold on in front of their home supporters as Rwanda found a decisive second goal.
The result ends a run of three previous meetings between the sides in which Rwanda had recorded two draws and one defeat. It also gives the Amavubi a second successive win at the start of Group K qualifying.
Rwanda had opened their campaign by beating Liberia and are now positioned among the leading contenders for qualification from the group.
Cape Verde, by contrast, have suffered back-to-back defeats. The Blue Sharks lost away to Mali in Bamako on the opening matchday before falling at home to Rwanda, leaving them under early pressure ahead of the next international break.
Humberto Bettencourt and his players will need to respond quickly if they are to avoid damaging their chances of reaching the tournament.