A look at Gor Mahia's opponents in the Coal City International Cup

The inaugural Coal City International Tournament will take place in Enugu State, Nigeria, from August 1 to August 11, 2024. Kenya's 21-time FKF Premier League champions, Gor Mahia, will compete against teams from Brazil, Benin, and Nigeria.

In the first round, Gor Mahia will face Corinthians on Friday, August 2. On Sunday, August 4, they will play against Cotton FC, followed by a match against Nigeria's Remo Stars on Tuesday, August 6, 2024.

GOR MAHIA will be headed for Enugu, Nigeria for the Coal City International Cup when they are done with CACAFA Kagame Cup as part of pre season preparations. pic.twitter.com/iExFGSCvrz

— GOR MAHIA (@GormahiaLive) July 8, 2024

Gor Mahia aims to redeem itself after a disappointing performance in the 2024 CECAFA Kagame Cup. The team suffered two losses, falling 2-0 to Al-Hilal and 1-0 to Red Arrows, and managed only a 1-1 draw against Ali Sabieh, failing to advance from Group B.

Profiles of Gor Mahia's Opponents

Corinthians

Founded in 1910, Corinthians is a Serie A club in Brazil. Despite finishing 14th in the 2023/24 season, the team boasts a rich trophy cabinet. Head coach Ramon Diaz leads the team.

Domestic Cups

• Serie A: 7 titles (1990, 1998, 1999, 2005, 2011, 2015, 2017)
• Copa do Brasil: 3 titles (1995, 2002, 2009)
• Paulista A1: 30 titles

International Cups

• Conmebol Libertadores: 1 title (2012)
• Recopa Conmebol: 1 title (2013/14)
• FIFA Club World Cup: 2 titles (2000, 2012)

Despite their dominance in the Kenyan league, Gor Mahia faces a tough challenge against Corinthians. The Brazilian club's black and white kit reflects its humble origins, while their crest features the São Paulo state flag, two oars, and an anchor, honoring their early achievements in nautical sports.

Coton FC

Originally founded as Taneka FC in Natitingou, the club became Coton FC after its acquisition by the Cotton Development Company (SODECO), led by Lionel Talon. Urbain Honfo is the head coach.

During the 2021-2022 season, the club was invited to participate in the Benin national premier division. Under the leadership of former French international Victor Zvunka and Beninese coach Urbain Honfo, Coton FC finished first in the Super Ligue Pro, clinching its maiden championship title. The club's home kit is black with blue stripes.

Remo Stars

Founded in 2004 by Kunle Soname as F.C. Dender, the club achieved promotion to the Nigeria National League in 2010. After rebranding and relocating to Remoland, the club became Remo Stars Football Club.

Remo Stars, led by head coach Daniel Ogunmodede, has been runners-up in the Nigeria Professional League Football in the 2022/23 and 2023/24 seasons. With strong financial backing and a focus on developing young talent, Remo Stars is a formidable opponent in any competition.