Gor Mahia head coach Leo Neiva takes bold gamble ahead of Red Arrows clash in CECAFA Kagame Cup

Gor Mahia head coach Leo Neiva takes bold gamble ahead of Red Arrows clash in CECAFA Kagame Cup

Festus Chuma 16:40 - 09.07.2024

The Brazilian gaffer is set to make his debut as Gor Mahia's coach when they face Red Arrows in the CECAFA Cup opener.

Gor Mahia head coach Leo Neiva has revealed that he is using the 2024 CECAFA Cup in Tanzania as an opportunity to assess his players.

K'Ogalo are set to take on Zambia's Red Arrows on Wednesday under the floodlights of the Azam Complex at 9 pm East Africa Time.

Neiva, who has recently taken the helm of the team, expressed his optimism and the importance of the tournament for his preparation efforts.

“We expect a very competitive tournament in Tanzania. But this comes at the right time to help me assess the team since I have just joined a few days ago,Neiva remarked.

Traveling to Tanzania with a squad of 25 players, Neiva plans to rotate his squad and give each player an opportunity to showcase their abilities.

Leading K'Ogalo contingent are new signings Chris Akena, Samuel Kapen, and striker Gedeon Bendeka Mololia, who were recently unveiled by the 21-time FKF Premier League champions.

Bendeka, a Congolese striker, comes with an impressive record from Rwandese side Etincelles FC, where he scored 13 goals in 22 games last season, finishing third in the top scorer's list.

Midfielder Akena brings a wealth of experience from his time at various clubs, including Greek League 2 side Apollon Pontou FC, Aspire Academy in Qatar, Uganda Premier League side Maroons, Shabab Al Ahli Club, Al Rams Club in UAE, and Greek third-tier club Megas Alexandros Agias Marinas.

The 21-year-old began his career at Proway Sports Academy in Uganda.

Meanwhile, Samuel Kapen joins from another top-flight side, Nairobi City Stars, adding depth and quality to the midfield.

Gor Mahia have been drawn into Group B, facing tough competition from Zambian champions Red Arrows, 10-time Sudan Premier League winners Al Hilal, and Djibouti's Telcom FC.

The tournament winner will receive over Ksh 3 million in prize money adding a significant incentive for all teams involved.

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