Tusker FC's journey in the 2026 CECAFA Kagame Cup ended prematurely after a 1-0 loss to Rwandan hosts Rayon Sports at Kigali Pelé Stadium on Wednesday. The defeat marked their second consecutive Group C loss, eliminating them from the tournament before the knockout stages.

Antonio Kossivi Atisso Kodjo scored the decisive goal just before halftime, securing Rayon Sports' perfect record with six points from two matches. Despite a reshuffled Tusker lineup, head coach Julien Mette's side could not find the back of the net in either match, having also fallen 2-0 to Sudanese champions Al Hilal in their opener.

Match Overview

  • Team Changes: Mette introduced six new starters, including recent signings Servyl Akouala Amuor, Aboubacar Doumbia, and John Otieno, aiming to spark a turnaround.
  • Early Chances: Tusker started positively, with Chrispine Erambo and Fabian Adikiny creating early opportunities, but failed to convert.
  • Decisive Moment: Kodjo capitalized on a through ball from Issa Djiguiba to score before the break, giving Rayon Sports the lead.
  • Second Half: Tusker pressed for an equalizer, with John Otieno and December Kisakah coming close, but Rayon's disciplined defense held firm.
  • Counterattacks: Rayon Sports threatened on the break, nearly doubling their lead late in the game.

Implications

With zero points and a goal difference of minus three, Tusker sit bottom of Group C and face a final group match against Zanzibar's KVZ SC, which will be a dead rubber. Rayon Sports, alongside Al Hilal, lead the group with six points each.

The early exit is a setback for Tusker, who had hoped the regional tournament would help integrate new players and build momentum ahead of the FKF Premier League season and their CAF Confederation Cup campaign.

Despite the disappointment, the Brewers will return home with valuable experience gained against some of East Africa's top clubs.