In front of their passionate home supporters, the Blues ended a 28-year wait for regional glory, lifting the trophy on Rwandan soil for the first time since 1998.
Extra-Time Heroics Seal Historic Triumph
Rayon Sports took the lead in the first half through Cameroonian striker Junior Kameni, who finished clinically in the 27th minute after a precise cross from captain Emmanuel Nshimiyimana “Kabange”.
Gor Mahia responded strongly after the break. Shariff Musa equalised in the 54th minute to force the contest into extra time and set up a tense finale.
The decisive moment arrived early in the additional period. Daniel Muhoza struck in the 98th minute to restore Rayon’s advantage and send the Amahoro Stadium into wild celebrations. The hosts held firm for the remainder of extra time to secure a hard-earned 2-1 victory.
A Night of History for the Blues
The triumph marks Rayon Sports’ second CECAFA title and their first since defeating Zanzibar’s Mlandege in the 1998 final. It also completes an unbeaten campaign for the side under head coach Francis Christian Haringingo, who guided the Blues past South Sudan’s Jamus SC in the semi-finals.
For Gor Mahia, the defeat ends a valiant run that included a dramatic penalty shoot-out victory over Sudan’s Al Hilal in the last four. The Kenyan giants were seeking their first regional title since 1985 and put in a determined performance, but ultimately fell just short on the night.
Celebrations in Kigali
As the final whistle blew, Rayon players and staff poured onto the pitch amid scenes of pure joy. The trophy was presented to the squad in front of their ecstatic fans, cementing a memorable night for Rwandan club football.
The win also earns Rayon Sports the US$30,000 winners’ prize, with Gor Mahia taking home US$20,000 as runners-up. Sudan’s Al Hilal had earlier claimed bronze with a 2-1 victory over Jamus SC in the third-place play-off.
For Rayon Sports, this is more than just a trophy — it is a statement of resurgence and a night that will live long in the memory of the Gikundiro faithful.