Joy-Lance Mickels, a 32-year-old Rwandan forward, will make history on Thursday as the first player from Rwanda to feature in the Champions League proper, when his Azerbaijani club Sabah face Manchester United at Old Trafford. Mickels, a lifelong United fan, described the match as a dream come true and emphasized the importance of competing, not just enjoying the occasion. Sabah, founded only nine years ago, qualified for the group stage after a dramatic 6-4 aggregate win over Hapoel Be'er Sheva, with Mickels scoring in every qualifying round.

Born in Germany, he has played in lower leagues there, as well as in the Netherlands and Saudi Arabia, before returning to Sabah in 2021. He also represents Rwanda internationally, proud of his heritage and hoping to inspire young Rwandan players. Sabah will play their home games at Baku's Olympic Stadium due to their own ground not meeting UEFA standards, with further challenges against Borussia Dortmund and Arsenal.