Al Hilal Give Tusker a Rude Kagame Cup Welcome

Tusker FC began their 2026 CECAFA Kagame Cup campaign with a 2-0 defeat to Sudanese giants Al Hilal in their Group C opener at Amahoro Stadium on Sunday.

Goals in either half from Gamar Eldin and Salim Adams handed the Sudanese giants, runners-up in last year’s tournament, a commanding start to their campaign.

The victory sends the Sudanese side to the top of Group C and strengthens their hopes of reaching the semi-finals, while Tusker, returning to the regional competition for the first time in almost a decade sit bottom of the standings ahead of the later clash between Rwandese side Rayon Sports and Kikosi cha Valantia Zanzibar Sports Club (KVZ SC).

Tusker headed into the competition carrying a rich pedigree in the tournament. The Brewers are five-time CECAFA Kagame Cup champions and one of the competition's most successful clubs.

Their last triumph came in 2008, and lifting the trophy this year would secure a record-equalling sixth regional title, matching Tanzanian giants Simba SC.

Al Hilal are a regional powerhouse and five-time champions, Al Hilal, who arrived at the tournament with ambitions of going one better after narrowly missing out on the title last year.

The Sudanese outfit reached the 2025 final before suffering a 2-1 defeat to Tanzania's Singida Black Stars, a result that left them with unfinished business heading into this year's edition.