10-Man Gor Mahia Edge Al Hilal on Penalties to Reach Kagame Cup Final

Ten-Man Gor Mahia Edge Al Hilal on Penalties to Reach Kagame Cup Final

KIGALI, Rwanda — Ten-man Gor Mahia produced a spirited defensive performance before defeating Sudanese giants Al Hilal SC 8-7 in a dramatic penalty shootout to secure a place in the 2026 CECAFA Kagame Cup final.

The semi-final ended 1-1 after regulation and extra time at Kigali Pelé Stadium, with neither side able to find a decisive second goal before the contest was settled from the penalty spot.

Gor Mahia took the lead in the first half when Steven Ebuela turned the ball into his own net in the 34th minute. Al Hilal responded ten minutes later through Ansumana Samura, sending the teams into the interval level.

The Kenyan champions continued to compete strongly after the break, but their task became considerably harder when Jackson Dwang was dismissed following a second bookable offence.

Despite playing with ten men, Gor Mahia remained organised and disciplined throughout the additional 30 minutes. Al Hilal attempted to exploit their numerical advantage, but K’Ogalo’s defence held firm and forced the match into a penalty shootout.

The shootout developed into a tense sudden-death contest as both teams repeatedly converted from the spot. Gor Mahia eventually prevailed 8-7, triggering celebrations among the players, technical staff and travelling supporters.

Head coach Charles Akonnor praised his players for their determination and commitment against one of the region’s strongest sides. The result keeps alive Gor Mahia’s ambition of lifting the regional trophy for the first time since 1985.

K’Ogalo have previously won the regional club championship three times, taking the title in 1980, 1981 and 1985. Victory in the final would therefore end a 41-year wait for a fourth CECAFA crown.

Gor Mahia will face Rwanda’s Rayon Sport FC in the final at Amahoro Stadium on Friday, August 7. Rayon booked their place by defeating South Sudan’s Jamus SC 3-1 in the other semi-final.

The champions will receive US$30,000, while the runners-up will collect US$20,000. More importantly for Gor Mahia, the final represents an opportunity to restore the club’s place at the summit of East and Central African club football and bring a long regional trophy drought to an end.