Hussein Mohammed says Gor Mahia win over APR sets tone for CECAFA Kagame Cup
By Joel Masibo, July 25, 2026Football Kenya Federation President Hussein Mohammed has described Gor Mahia’s 5-0 resounding victory over Rwanda’s APR in the opening fixture of the 2026 CECAFA Kagame Cup on Friday, July 24, 2026 as a tone set for the campaign ahead.
The Kenyan champions took Group A assignments by a storm, taking control of the fixture from the kickoff to the end of the tie, humiliating the home side before the packed Amahoro Stadium in Kigali.
“Congratulations Gor Mahia FC, that was an impressive and emphatic start to the CECAFA Kagame Cup, a performance that sets the tone for the campaign ahead, best of luck in your next assignment.” Mohammed said in a statement.
As it happened
Coach Charles Akonnor’s side produced a memorable performance to see off the Rwanda champions at their backyard.
After a tense first 30 minutes, the visiting Kenyan team took the lead after 34 minutes when Michael Kibwage nodded in past Siluane Eman Alberto to make it 1-0.
The home side had no time to settle down before Patrick Essombe unleashed a hard shot from outside the box to beat the APR FC goalkeeper again after a minute.
APR’s attacking line of Ronald Ssekiganda and Dao Rauaf Meme tried to push forward, but were denied space to find the target.
After recess Gor Mahia continued to dominate the match with better movement, high intensity and good defending. Paul Okoth Odhiambo made it 3-0 after 73 minutes moments after the President of Rwanda Paul Kagame had arrived and taken his seat.
Lesley Otieno Owino and Ebenezer Assifuah-Inkoom added two more goals.
Akonnor delighted
After the match, Charles Kwablan Akonnor, the Gor Mahia FC coach said that he was proud of his team picking a big win in their opening match. “We still have many matches to come and we shall take every match with seriousness,” added Akonnor.
Gor Mahia FC take the lead in Group A with three points and a better goal advantage than second placed Vipers SC who defeated Garde Republicaine FC 3-0 in the opening match.
Action returns on Saturday, July 25, 2026, with Group B macthes as 2025 winners Singida Black Stars Fc (Tanzania) will face Jamus SC (South Sudan), while Simba SC (Tanzania) battle Mogadishu City Club at the Kigali Pele Stadium.