Tusker FC started their 2026 CECAFA Kagame Cup journey with a 2-0 defeat against Sudanese giants Al Hilal SC at Kigali’s Amahoro Stadium on Sunday.
The Group C opener saw Tusker struggle to contain their opponents, conceding first through Kamaradini Mamudu in the first half. Despite some promising moments, the Brewers were unable to find an equaliser.
Coach Julien Mette introduced four substitutes at halftime to boost Tusker’s attacking threat, with players like Tom Teka and Steve Omondi pushing hard for a breakthrough. Abud Omar came close twice with dangerous free-kicks, but Al Hilal’s goalkeeper made crucial saves to keep the score intact.
In stoppage time, Salim Adams sealed the victory for Al Hilal with a swift counterattack finish, leaving Tusker with a challenging task to progress in the group.
Match Highlights
- First goal by Kamaradini Mamudu came just before halftime, deflecting past Tusker’s keeper Brandon Obiero.
- Tusker’s Abud Omar narrowly missed with two well-struck free-kicks.
- Steve Omondi’s late header was saved by Al Hilal’s goalkeeper.
- Salim Adams scored in added time to make it 2-0.
Despite the loss, Tusker showed resilience and will look to bounce back in their upcoming Group C matches against hosts Rayon Sports and Zanzibar’s KVZ SC. The tournament remains an important platform for Mette to test his squad ahead of the FKF Premier League and CAF Confederation Cup campaigns.
The Brewers’ next fixture is set for Wednesday against Rayon Sports at Kigali Pele Stadium, where a win is crucial to keep their knockout stage hopes alive.
