In a disappointing start to their CECAFA campaign, Kenyan Premier League champions Gor Mahia fell to Zambian counterparts Red Arrows in a closely contested Group B match at Azam Complex, Chamazi. The match, characterized by tactical maneuvers and missed opportunities, ended in a 1-0 defeat for the Kenyan giants.
The first half saw both teams evenly matched, with neither side managing to break the deadlock by halftime. Gor Mahia’s new coach, Leo Neiva, made a critical halftime substitution, replacing Erick Masika with new signing Chris Akena, aiming to inject creativity into their attack. In response, Red Arrows withdrew Kanda Mbuyi for veteran striker James Chamanga, a move that would prove decisive later in the game.
The second half saw intense action with both teams pushing for a breakthrough. Gor Mahia survived a scare in the 58th minute when Red Arrows’ Diarra missed a clear scoring opportunity. Sensing the need for a tactical shift, Gor Mahia made a double substitution in the 60th minute, bringing in Ernest Wendo and Boniface Omondi for Shariff Musa and Alpha Onyango.
However, it was Red Arrows who capitalized on their chances. In the 76th minute, James Chamanga, at 42 years old, displayed his experience by scoring a close-range goal, assisted by Chilimina and Saddam Yusuf Phiri, putting the Zambian side in the lead. Despite Gor Mahia’s efforts to equalize, including late substitutions of Paul Ochuoga and Christopher Otieno for Philip Otieno and Samwel Kapen respectively, they were unable to break through Red Arrows’ defense.
Throughout the match, Red Arrows maintained dominance with over 70% possession, leaving Gor Mahia struggling to find their rhythm. The absence of key players like Austin Odhiambo and Ronney Onyango further weakened Gor Mahia’s performance on the field.
Looking ahead, Gor Mahia faces Djibouti Telecom in their next group match, while Red Arrows will challenge Al Hilal Omdurman, who secured a 2-0 victory over Djibouti Telecom. With only the group winner guaranteed a spot in the next round alongside just one best second-placed team across three groups, Gor Mahia finds themselves in a precarious position early in the tournament.
The defeat serves as a wake-up call for Gor Mahia, highlighting the challenges they must overcome to advance in the CECAFA competition. As they prepare for their upcoming matches, redemption and strategic adjustments will be crucial to keep their hopes alive in this prestigious regional tournament.
