Gor Mahia off to Kigali for Rayon Sport clash, Cecafa campaign

The K'Ogalo contingent, comprising 42 members including 29 players, traveled in two batches due to logistical constraints that made it impossible to secure a single flight for the entire delegation. The first group took off at noon, while the second is set to depart at 7pm later Thursday.

Team manager Philemon Otieno confirmed the travel arrangements, explaining that the split was necessitated by limited space on available flights.

"We are traveling in two groups today, one leaving in the morning and the next in the evening—ahead of the Rayon Day match on Saturday," Otieno stated. "After that, we will continue with our preparations in Rwanda for the CECAFA tournament."

For head coach Aknoonor, the tour presents a crucial opportunity to fine-tune his squad ahead of the new season, which is set to begin in August.

The friendly against Rayon Sport will offer a competitive test, while the CECAFA tournament is expected to serve as an intensive pre-season camp, allowing the tactician to assess his players and build cohesion within the team.

Gor Mahia have been pooled in Group A with APR of Rwanda, Vipers of Uganda and Garde Republicaine of Djibouti.

Gor Mahia fans will be hoping the East African tour provides the perfect springboard for a strong domestic campaign, as the club looks to build on its rich history and reclaim continental glory.

The team is expected to settle in Kigali upon arrival, with training sessions scheduled immediately to prepare for Saturday's showdown.