Gor Mahia seek defensive reinforcement ahead of Al Hilal clash

Gor Mahia topped Group ‘A’ after beating APR FC 5-0 and Garde Républicaine, despite a 1-0 defeat to Uganda's Vipers SC, to set up a semi-final against Sudanese giants Al Hilal.

Akonnor said the club has already identified a centre-back to strengthen the squad ahead of the new FKF Premier League and CAF Champions League campaigns.

"There is a need for us to strengthen our centre-backs. We have a player in mind and we are talking. We hope management will work it out because if Sylvester comes back in two or three months' time, it means we are going to rely only on two centre-backs and that is not going to be helpful to us," he said.

The Ghanaian tactician confirmed that injuries to captain Sylvester Owino, Samuel Kapen and Patrick Essombe have disrupted the team's preparations, while defender Felix is also recovering.

"It's not too good. It disturbs our preparation toward what we want to achieve a bit. But we have to accept it and hopefully they will all come back in good time."

Gor Mahia will also play without midfielder Alpha Onyango after the club's appeal against his red card was unsuccessful. Akonnor, however, expressed confidence in the players available to fill the void.

"He's an important player for us, but we've got enough midfielders to cover those areas. Those who are there will do well and fit in for Tuesday's match," he said.

Despite the setbacks, Akonnor remains confident his side can overcome one of Africa's most successful clubs and book a place in the final.

"We carry a lot of respect for them because they are a very good side, but we are K'Ogalo. Our target is to get to the final. We believe with the support behind us and by improving on our previous performances, we have a very good chance."

Defender Daniel Sakari said reaching the semi-finals has given Gor Mahia valuable match practice ahead of the new season.

"It's been a good feeling reaching the semi-finals. These are more games for us in pre-season and that's a plus because they help us prepare for the domestic league and the Champions League."

Sakari acknowledged Al Hilal's reputation after their run to last season's CAF Champions League quarter-finals but insisted Gor Mahia are ready for the challenge.

"We know we're going to meet a formidable side and we respect them, but we are ready," he said, adding that the squad is now about 80 per cent match fit.

Furthermore, Akonnor welcomed the signing of Ugandan international Denis Omedi from APR FC, saying the forward will strengthen Gor Mahia's attack. However, Omedi is ineligible for the Kagame Cup after being registered by APR earlier in the tournament.

Victory over Al Hilal would secure Gor Mahia a place in the CECAFA Kagame Cup final as they build towards the 2026/27 FKF Premier League and CAF Champions League campaigns.