The Egyptian side who are renowned for their domestic and continental success is coached by Swiss tactician Marcel Koller. Koller, who took charge in September of last year led Al Ahly to the crown
On Sunday, September 15th, 2024, Nyayo National Stadium will become the heart of African football as Gor Mahia faces off against Egypt's powerhouse, Al Ahly, in the first leg of the CAF Champions League second preliminary round. This highly anticipated clash promises to be a thrilling encounter, with Kenya's reigning champions taking on the defending continental giants in a battle of football supremacy.
Gor Mahia, the Kenyan Premier League champions have made their mark by qualifying for this stage through a dramatic 5-1 comeback against Al Mereikh of South Sudan. After a challenging first leg in Juba where they went a goal down, Gor Mahia's resilience shone through in the second leg showcasing their determination and quality while also using the home and twelfth man advantage.
Speaking after a training session at the Mpesa Foundation Grounds, Gor Mahia coach Leonardo Neiva expressed confidence in his squad. “All my players have prepared and are ready for the match. It’s a big game and they’ve been fronted as favorites considering they are the reigning champions; we need to beat them here and I hope that Nyayo National Stadium will be full of fans as they’ll also use that advantage in Egypt. We must show them that Kenyan football has improved and is ready,” Neiva asserted.
Gor Mahia’s lineup will probably feature a 4-3-3 formation considering it’s the same formation the Brazilian has been using since taking over. The defensive duties will be handled by the young Sylvester Owino and new signing Alfonce Omija. In midfield, the influential Austin Odhiambo, the most valuable player in the Kenyan Premier League, will drive creativity and control the tempo of the game as usual. Up front, Christopher Ochieng’ will lead the attack flanked by Rooney Onyango and Sharrif Musa at the wings. New acquisition Samuel Kapen, who provided two crucial assists in the previous round from the bench, is another player to watch.
The team will be looking to make up for the loss of their main striker Benson Omala who moved to Lebanon. However, Christopher Ochieng’s presence and the versatility of players like Rooney Onyango, who has demonstrated remarkable adaptability, offers a strong attacking threat.
Al Ahly, the 12-time CAF Champions League winners come into this encounter with high hopes to advance to the next stage till final and retain their title. The Egyptian side who are renowned for their domestic and continental success is coached by Swiss tactician Marcel Koller. Koller, who took charge in September of last year led and Al Ahly to their recent continental victory and has a wealth of experience to draw upon.
The Egyptians might also line up in a 4-3-3 formation, utilizing their signature tiki-taka style of play. This approach which is characterized by quick, precise passing and fluid movement will pose a significant challenge to Gor Mahia’s defensive setup. Al Ahly’s large fanbase in Africa and their 43 Egyptian Premier League titles underline their status as one of Africa’s most successful clubs.
The match will see a crucial battle between Gor Mahia’s youthful energy and Al Ahli’s experienced precision. The Kenyan side will rely on the roaring support of their home fans to disrupt Al Ahly’s rhythm and exploit any gaps in their defense.
For Gor Mahia, midfielders Austin Odhiambo and winger Rooney Onyango will be pivotal. Odhiambo's creativity and Onyango’s versatility will be key in breaking down Al Ahly’s defensive lines. Conversely, Al Ahly will look to leverage their passing prowess and experience to dominate possession and control the game’s tempo.
As the whistle blows on this highly anticipated clash, fans can expect a high-octane match full of skill, strategy and drama. Gor Mahia will seek to capitalize on their home advantage while Al Ahly will aim to showcase their continental pedigree. With both teams poised for a thrilling encounter, this game is set to be a memorable chapter in the Kenyan football spaces.