CECAFA Kagame Cup: Gor Mahia and Rayon Sports coaches express confidence ahead of high-stakes final duel
By Luke Oluoch, August 7, 2026East African football giants Gor Mahia and Rayon Sports will renew their fierce regional rivalry this Friday, August 7, 2026, when they clash in the CECAFA Kagame Cup final in Kigali.
Gor Mahia are chasing their fourth regional title, while the Rwandan outfit hopes to claim a second, having last lifted the trophy in 1998.
During the pre-match press conference, both managers acknowledged the high stakes and emphasised the tactical preparation required to lift the silverware.
Rayon vows to keep trophy in Rwanda
Rayon Sports head coach Francis Haringingo noted that despite winning all four of their tournament matches so far, his team takes nothing for granted.
“We are happy to reach the final and will fight to ensure the trophy stays in Rwanda,” Haringingo told CECAFA.com. “Gor Mahia is a solid team, and we will approach them with tremendous respect. Tactical awareness will be key.”
Also Read: CECAFA Kagame Cup: History on the line as Gor Mahia face Rayon Sports in final
Haringingo also recalled their recent success over the Kenyan side, adding: “We beat them 2-0 during the Rayon Day celebrations, so we expect them to come out firing.”
Gor Mahia head coach Charles Akonnor expressed pride in his squad’s character and resilience throughout their tournament journey, which included navigating tough fixtures and overcoming a red card earlier in the campaign.
Akonnor acknowledged the daunting task ahead, especially given their recent 2-0 friendly loss to Rayon Sports on July 18, 2026.
Boost for K’Ogalo
“Our journey to the final has been tests of resilience,” said Akonnor. “We played APR, one of the biggest clubs here, and later fought through matches where we were down to ten men without losing discipline. We know how Rayon Sports plays, and we will find solutions to break them down.”
He added, “I am always hungry as a coach, and my players know what is expected of them. Playing a disciplined home side won’t be easy, but we are prepared.”
Gor Mahia will be boosted by the return of midfielder Alpha Onyango, who is back in contention after serving a suspension. The club is, however, sweating over the fitness of Samuel Kapen, Paric Essombe, and Silvester Owino, who picked up injuries before the semifinal against Al Hilal.
The tie will kick off at 7:00 pm.