Gor Mahia fans had mixed feelings about the team’s performance at the 2026 CECAFA Kagame Cup, where they finished the regional tournament as runners-up.The Kenyan giants were among nine teams that competed as the prestigious tournament made its return after a break.##NAJAVA_MECA_9887178##The tournament also marked the beginning of pre-season preparations for the 22-time FKF Premier League champions. Gor Mahia reached the final, where they conceded deep into extra time to suffer a 2-1 defeat to Rwandan giants Rayon Sports on Friday, August 7, at the sold-out Amahoro Stadium.With hundreds of thousands of supporters and Kenyan football fans at large closely following the tournament, the fans shared their final verdicts on Gor Mahia’s performance, as captured by *Mozzart Sport*.“Gor Mahia performed beyond my expectations. The club went into the tournament in the middle of transfer window activities, with several players exiting the club as well as a handful also joining to bolster the squad.The fact that the team went past the group stage is in itself an achievement worth appreciating. The CECAFA performance gives us hope heading into the new season,” said ardent fan Fredrick Odhiambo.Charlton get off to flying EFL Cup start, as Sichenje gets 15-minute cameoFor Amanda Apiyo, however, there are areas that still need strengthening if the team is to conquer Africa.“At the top level. Every chance counts and every wasted opportunity is punished. We (Gor Mahia) were the better side for the better part of the game. We created many chances but still could not bury them.Going into the CAF Champions League, we will need to be very clinical in front of goal. Paul Okoth needs more confidence to lead the line. We also need to find a midfield combination that works for the whole season. It is never enough to rule Kenya, we want to see the club progress at the continental stage,” remarked Apiyo.Millions Gor Mahia pocketed despite losing CECAFA Kagame Cup finalEdwin Nyamunga, who followed the team to Rwanda, could only feel proud of the team.“That was some epic tournament by Gor Mahia. No one thought we could reach the finals, not even me who travelled. In the end, we settled for a runners-up finish even though we all could have loved a winner's medal.The experience in Rwanda was also great. That was a well-organized tournament with hospitable people. We leave Rwanda with great lessons and with hopes that we will continue to dominate the domestic league.”For Sharon Achieng, the tournament was an opportunity to praise Gor Mahia coach Charles Akonnor for a job well done.“I was personally impressed by coach Charkes Akonnor. He was under pressure and criticism from fans, especially after the loss to Vipers. He reacted well to it and answered with resounding performances, including the unlucky loss in the final. I am hoping he carries that momentum into the new season.”Ugandan signing reveals what AFC Leopards need to end 28-year league title droughtVeteran fan Francis Odundo offered a comprehensive assessment of all departments of the team.“Our goalkeeper lost concentration in key moments of the match. I hope he gets to improve that, especially with increased competition in that department. The defense was rock solid save for a few positional mistakes that needed fine-tuning.In midfield, the CDM position still needs some fine tuning as well as a creative midfielder who could fill the vacant shoes of Austin Odhiambo. We equally lack a prolific striker for continental matches but good enough for the local league,” said Odundo.AFC Leopards fan Geremy Otieka could not resist taking a swipe at the *Green Army*.“While I was impressed with Gor Mahia’s performance, as a rival fan I am happy that they failed to clinch the title. I was not ready for the banter that was forthcoming. Let them come back and we compete locally.”Gor Mahia will now shift their focus to the CAF Champions League preliminary-round clash against former champions Pyramids FC.STARS ABROAD: Odhiambo assists in win as Vyner's Wrexham suffer Carabao Cup exit
64