Loaned by Kaizer Chiefs to Kruger United, Rwandan goalkeeper Fiacre Ntwari has played only two matches this season, according to Soccer Laduma. A starter for his national team, he began Rwanda’s first two qualifiers for AFCON 2027.
The move was supposed to open doors for him. According to Soccer Laduma, Fiacre Ntwari, 27, Rwanda’s international goalkeeper, was loaned by Kaizer Chiefs to Kruger United for the 2026/27 season with a clear objective: to give him the playing time he struggled to find at Naturena.
Yet since the start of the campaign, the keeper has played only two matches for the Mpumalanga-based club. A meagre return for a player who came precisely in search of minutes, and a stark contrast with his status in the national team.
Two starts, two defeats
Both of Ntwari’s appearances in his new colours ended in defeat. He started in the 2-0 loss to Durban City, then was again named in the starting line-up for the 4-0 defeat against Orlando Pirates, again according to Soccer Laduma.
The record is therefore thin: two matches, two defeats, and playing time that does not match the ambition stated at the time of the loan.
Chiefs see him in their long-term project
Kaizer Chiefs signed him in July 2024 for four years, with an option for a further year. According to Soccer Laduma, the club sees him as part of its long-term project, and its officials said they were pleased with his progress. Ntwari remains under contract in Soweto.
The fact remains that the loan was decided precisely to remove an obstacle: the lack of playing time at Naturena. By entrusting him to Kruger United, the Chiefs hoped to see him rack up matches. For now, the numbers do not add up.
With the national team, he is a starter
On the international stage, the situation is quite different. During the previous international window, he started both of Rwanda’s first AFCON 2027 qualifiers, with wins against Liberia and Cape Verde, six points in all, Soccer Laduma reports.
The contrast raises a question. According to Soccer Laduma, the continuation of the loan would be in doubt if his playing time does not improve: merely an open question at this stage, with no decision reported.