Akonnor backs Gor Mahia to overturn Pyramids deficit in Cairo

Gor Mahia head coach Charles Akonnor remains confident his side can overturn a two-goal deficit against Pyramids FC in the second leg of their CAF Champions League preliminary-round tie.

The Kenyan champions suffered a 2-0 defeat to the Egyptian giants at Nyayo National Stadium on Sunday, leaving them with a huge task ahead of next Sunday's return leg in Cairo.

Pyramids took control through first-half goals from Walid El Karti and Mahmoud Saber, punishing Gor Mahia at crucial moments and securing a commanding advantage.

Akonnor admitted Pyramids' greater experience and match sharpness played a role in the result, with the Egyptian side having already played several league matches this season.

“They were experienced. They have a lot of national (team) players in their squad. They've played in their league. They've played four matches. They've not lost anything. So they are a good side, and we have to accept it in good faith, go into the next game and believe that if we do the right things at the right moment, there's always a chance for us,” Akonnor said.

The Ghanaian tactician, however, believes Gor Mahia's improved display in the second half offers encouragement ahead of the return fixture.

Akonnor says the team will use the week of preparation to develop a tactical plan for Cairo while working on their confidence and execution.

“Today we lost 2-0. You never know. But it's too early to talk about it. We will find a strategy, an idea of how we want to play in Cairo. And then we'll see the way forward,” he said.

The 22-time Kenya Premier League champions went into the encounter without a win in their previous six matches, with their last victory coming against Djiboutian side Garde Républicaine during the CECAFA Kagame Cup.

The defeat also leaves K’Ogalo needing a significant turnaround in Egypt to keep their Champions League campaign alive, with Pyramids now firmly in control of the tie.

Pyramids have strong continental pedigree, having won their maiden CAF Champions League title in 2025, while Gor Mahia are seeking to make a return to the group stage of Africa's premier club competition.