Akonnor dares APR as Gor launch Kagame Cup campaign

Gor Mahia head coach Charles Akonnor has revealed that his side will field a more settled starting eleven in tonight's CECAFA Kagame Cup Group A opener against Rwandan giants APR FC at Amahoro Stadium, having learned valuable lessons from their recent friendly defeat to Rayon Sport in the Rayon Day exhibition match.

Kickoff is set for 8:00pm at the Amahoro Stadium in Kigali, with the Kenyan champions looking to end a 41-year trophy drought in the regional competition.

Akonnor, who guided K'Ogalo to a record-extending 22nd league title last season, acknowledged that the 2-0 loss to Rayon Sports last Saturday served as a timely wake-up call.

"In our first match we did a lot of changes but this time we will not do that. Of course, we will give some of the new players a chance because there are many matches ahead of us. Before we leave here, we will give everyone a fair chance. It's important for the technical bench to know them well," said the Ghanaian tactician.

The coach insisted that Gor Mahia's preparations had been solid despite the challenging timing of the tournament, which coincides with the club's pre-season program.

"We believe our preparation was good, though a little bit challenging because it's that time of pre-season and at the same time trying to do well in such a big tournament," Akonnor added.

The Ghanaian tactician is also looking ahead to the CAF Champions League campaign, viewing the CECAFA tournament as ideal preparation for continental demands.

Newly appointed captain Sylvester Owino echoed his coach's sentiments, insisting the Rayon Sports friendly had provided valuable insight despite the result.

"Us playing Rayon Sports last weekend was good preparation towards the commencement of this tournament. I think there were a lot of positives being that we trained only for a week. I think the boys have picked up well and we are hoping for a good outing," Owino noted.

The defender, who succeeded long-serving skipper Philemon Otieno following his retirement, admitted he has big shoes to fill but is eager to lead the team to silverware.

"This is a good challenge for me as well. Still young, promising. We are looking forward to clinching the trophy so that we get on the road," Owino said.

Tonight's clash marks the first competitive meeting between the two sides since December 2020, when Gor Mahia defeated APR 3-1 in Nairobi to secure a 4-3 aggregate victory in the CAF Champions League preliminary round, having lost the first leg 2-1 in Kigali.

With regional pride and early tournament momentum at stake, Amahoro Stadium is set for an action-packed evening as two of East Africa's most decorated clubs renew their rivalry.