Gor Mahia head coach Charles Akonnor says his side are well prepared for their CAF Champions League meeting with Egyptian champions Pyramids FC and believes they can produce a positive result.

The Kenyan champions will host Pyramids at Nairobi’s Nyayo Stadium on Sunday in the first leg of their preliminary-round tie.

Akonnor, who took charge of Gor Mahia earlier this year, has acknowledged the quality and experience of the Egyptian side but says his players are ready for the challenge.

“It is another opportunity to showcase what we have. We are doing it against a very good side, and we are preparing adequately, and the players are getting it right, and I believe we are capable of doing it,” the Ghanaian coach said.

Akonnor said Gor Mahia’s preparations had focused on all aspects of their game, including tactics, fitness and their mental approach.

“The preparations are going on very well. We know we are facing a very good team; they are a very tough team, but we are also a good team, and we have been preparing well for this match,” he added.

“We have been working on our tactics, our fitness and also the mental aspect because these are the kind of matches where you need to be fully prepared. We know what is expected of us on Sunday.”

Pyramids have established themselves as one of Africa’s leading clubs in recent seasons and won their maiden CAF Champions League title in 2025.

Akonnor says he respects their pedigree but believes the tie offers his players an opportunity to showcase their abilities on the continental stage.

“Pyramids have good players, and they have experience in African competitions. We respect them, and this match will also give our players a chance to fight for their places in the national team.”

The former Ghana international has urged his players to remain disciplined and united, saying small details could determine the outcome of the tie.

“We have to be disciplined, stay together and fight for every ball. If we do what we have been training and play with confidence, then we can get a positive result,” Akonnor said.

The return leg will be played in Cairo on 13 September, with the winners advancing to the second preliminary round of the Champions League.

The winner of the tie will face either South Sudan’s El Merriekh Bentiu or Somalia’s Heegan SC in the next round.