CECAFA Kagame Cup: Kibwage conveys pride in Gor Mahia exploits despite final loss
By Luke Oluoch, August 8, 2026Gor Mahia captain Mike Kibwage has broken his silence following the team’s heartbreaking defeat in the 2026 CECAFA Kagame Cup final held in Rwanda.
K’Ogalo fell at the final hurdle, going down 2–1 in extra time against Rwandese side Rayon Sports, after battling back from a goal down to force the extra period on Friday, August 7, 2026.
Bow out with honour
However, their push for a fourth regional title ended late in the contest when substitute Daniel Muhoza delivered the decisive blow, denying Charles Akonnor’s men the silverware.
Speaking on the team’s performance, Kibwage, who put in a solid shift at the heart of defense, emphasised that they can look back with pride at what they accomplished:
“A brilliant fight from the boys and a performance to be proud of all round, but it wasn’t our night. Congratulations to Rayon Sports for the win. We leave with our heads held high, proud that we represented the badge with honour,” he said.
Gor Mahia’s journey
Gor Mahia’s impressive tournament run included topping a tough group comprising Rwandan giants APR, eight-time Ugandan champions Vipers SC, and Djibouti’s Garde Républicaine.
The Kenyan champions then edged Sudanese powerhouse Al Hilal in a dramatic semifinal penalty shootout, sending the CAF Champions League regulars packing 8–7 on spot kicks.
The semifinal triumph was among the most talked-about victories of the tournament, earning praise from head coach Akonnor, who described it as a “statement win” that demonstrated Gor’s true potential and quality.
The final hurdle, however, proved to be their toughest challenge yet. Francis Haringingo’s Rayon Sports got the better of the Kenyan side once again, almost a month after defeating them 2–0 in a pre-season friendly during Rayon Sports Day in Kigali.
Gor Mahia were aiming to end a 40-year wait for the CECAFA Kagame Cup trophy and become the first Kenyan club to bring the regional crown home since Tusker FC’s success in 2008.