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Akonnor demands focus as Gor Mahia face Pyramids comeback test in CAF Champions League
12th September, 2026 12:18 PM
Gor Mahia head coach Charles Akonnor has challenged his players to show character and maintain their concentration as they attempt to overturn their 2-0 first-leg deficit against Egyptian giants Pyramids FC on Sunday, September 13, 2026.
The Kenyan champions head into the second leg facing a difficult task, with Akonnor aware that there will be little room for mistakes against opponents with extensive experience in both domestic and continental football.
The Ghanaian coach has said Gor have used their final training sessions to prepare for the challenge and believes his players are ready to compete for the result they need.
“We have prepared well for the game. We know what is ahead of us and we know the kind of opponent we are going to face,” Akonnor said.
Akonnor stressed that Gor will need to raise their performance levels in the return fixture, with mental strength likely to play a major role in determining whether they can keep their continental hopes alive.
“The second leg will require determination, the right mindset and a high level of concentration. If we can do the right things on the pitch, then we will give ourselves a chance.”
The coach has also warned his players against dwelling on what happened in the opening encounter, insisting that the deficit should not undermine their belief ahead of the decisive match.
For Gor, the assignment will require more than simply finding the back of the net. They must also remain organised, disciplined and alert for the entire match while making the most of the chances that come their way.
Akonnor believes a strong start and sustained concentration could be crucial, particularly given how quickly the balance of a continental tie can change.
“We have to believe in ourselves. We have to stay focused from the first minute until the last minute because in a game like this, one moment can change everything,” he added.
Gor completed their final preparations in Nairobi before travelling for the return fixture in Cairo, where they will seek to produce a performance capable of turning the tie around.
Although the result left K’Ogalo facing a difficult task ahead of the second leg, sections of the club’s fanbase have called on the players to remain positive, address the shortcomings from the first meeting and approach the return fixture with determination.
“It is painful to lose at home, but this is not the time to give up. The boys should keep their heads high and believe in themselves. We still have another 90 minutes in Egypt,” one fan said.
With their margin for error significantly reduced, Akonnor’s message is centred on composure, belief and concentration as Gor prepare for what promises to be a demanding night against Pyramids.
