Sudanese football giant Al-Merreikh Club has officially withdrawn from the 2026 CECAFA Kagame Cup tournament.
The decision follows a strict technical review by the coaching staff to prioritize optimal pre-season preparation.
Seeking peak physical and tactical readiness, the technical team opted for an intensive overseas training camp instead.
CECAFA formally accepted the withdrawal, expressing full understanding and praising its long-standing, historic relationship with the club.
The federation also noted it eagerly anticipates Al-Merreikh’s return to its regional tournaments in the near future.
Meanwhile, a new wave of foreign players will land in junta-led Port Sudan tomorrow to join the local squad.
The combined roster will then fly to Kigali on July 13 to launch their crucial international camp.
Concurrently, the club’s remaining international professionals will bypass Sudan and travel directly to the Rwandan capital.
The rigorous Rwandan itinerary features grueling physical conditioning alongside high-stakes friendly matches against local opponents.
Interestingly, Al-Merreikh will also contest official Rwandan league matches as a novel, competitive dress rehearsal.
This unorthodox preparation strategy aims to sharpen the squad ahead of their demanding African Champions League campaign.
Al-Merreikh reiterated its deep appreciation to CECAFA, emphasizing a shared commitment to developing football across the region.
