The 2026 CECAFA Kagame Cup is heading toward a dramatic conclusion, with regional powerhouses Gor Mahia FC and home side Rayon Sport SC securing their places in the grand final at Amahoro Stadium.
In a thrilling opening semi-final, Kenyan champions Gor Mahia outlasted Sudanese giants Al Hilal 8–7 on post-match penalties following a 1–1 draw through 120 minutes.
Playing with 10 men for the entirety of extra time, K’Ogalo relied on heroics from goalkeeper Byrne Omondi to hold firm and punch their ticket to the main event.
Hosts Rayon Sport subsequently booked their first Kagame Cup final appearance in decades by edging South Sudan’s surprise package, Jamus SC, in a tense encounter.
While Ugandan interest shifted early after Vipers SC failed to reach the knockout rounds, the tournament’s tactical takeaway remains clear for regional observers.
The Venoms managed an impressive 1–0 victory over final-bound Gor Mahia during the group stage, proving that Ugandan clubs possess the squad quality to contend with the zone’s elite. However, goal-difference margins ultimately favored Al Hilal for the final semi-final slot.
With regional bragging rights on the line in Kigali, both Gor Mahia and Rayon Sport now battle for the trophy and the $30,000 top prize, while domestic leagues across East Africa gear up for the upcoming 2026/27 campaign.
