CECAFA Kagame Cup: Akonnor signals major squad rotation for Gor Mahia vs Vipers SC tie
By Luke Oluoch, July 26, 2026Gor Mahia head coach Charles Akonnor has hinted at a major squad rotation as his side prepares to face Ugandan champions Vipers SC on Monday, July 27, 2026, in the ongoing CECAFA Kagame Cup.
The Green Army will square off in their second group match, with both teams eager to build on their winning starts in the tournament. Gor Mahia thrashed hosts APR FC of Rwanda 5-0 in their opening fixture on Friday, July 24, before Denis Lavagne’s Vipers secured a 3-0 victory against Garde Republicaine to sit second in Group A on goal difference.
Team assessment
With several new signings and established mainstays delivering strong performances, the Ghanaian tactician revealed that a refreshed starting XI could be called into action for the crucial second match.
Akonnor emphasised that the technical bench is eager to evaluate the squad under competitive conditions during the regional competition to assess their depth and readiness ahead of the upcoming campaign.
“The next game (against Vipers) will be approached with different tactics. Every single player in this squad will have a chance to play,” Akonnor told Gor Mahia.com.
“By the time we leave here, we want to have a fair idea of the kind of players we have and who can start at any given game,” he added.
Part of Gor’s travelling squad for the include new signings, among them the highly-rated goalkeeper Humphrey Katasi and the attacking pair of Hansel Ochieng and Enock Machaka,
Mike Kibwage, scorer of Gor’s opening goal and skipper, Paul Okoth and Patrick Essombe were among the stars of the opening encounter, and it is expected to see who the gaffer elects to do duty against the Ugandans.
Akonnor has in the past explained the importance of the CECAFA Kagame Cup in K”Ogalo’s preparations for the upcoming CAF Champions League, highlighting that it holds the key to improving the team’s style of play, strengthening chemistry and addressing weaknesses before continental football begins.
The tie kicks off at 3:00 pm.