Kenyan Premier League heavyweights Gor Mahia FC showcased their strength by decisively defeating APR FC 5-0 in the second Group A match of the CECAFA Kagame Cup 2026.
Under the guidance of Coach Charles Akonnor, the team delivered an unforgettable performance, overcoming the Rwandan champions at Amahoro Stadium on Friday night.
After a tense initial 30 minutes, Gor Mahia seized the lead at the 34-minute mark when Michael Kibwage skillfully headed the ball past Siluane Eman Alberto, making it 1-0.
The home team barely had a moment to regroup before Patrick Essombe unleashed a powerful shot from outside the box, swiftly extending the lead to 2-0 just one minute later.
Despite the efforts of APR’s attacking duo, Ronald Ssekiganda and Dao Rauaf Meme, Gor Mahia’s defense effectively stifled their attempts to score.
Following halftime, Gor Mahia maintained their dominance with impressive movement, high intensity, and solid defending. Paul Okoth Odhiambo further increased the score to 3-0 in the 73rd minute, just moments after the President of Rwanda, Paul Kagame, took his seat.
Lesley Otieno Owino and Ebenezer Assifuah-Inkoom contributed two additional goals, solidifying the victory.
Coach Charles Kwablan Akonnor expressed pride in his team’s significant win in their opening match, stating, “We have many matches ahead, and we will approach each one with the utmost seriousness.”
With this victory, Gor Mahia FC leads Group A with three points and a superior goal difference compared to second-place Vipers SC, who also had a successful start by defeating Garde Republicaine FC 3-0.
Excitement continues on Saturday with Group B matches, as defending champions Singida Black Stars FC from Tanzania face Jamus SC from South Sudan, while Simba SC from Tanzania goes head-to-head with Mogadishu City Club at the Kigali Pele Stadium.
