CAF Champions: K'Ogalo gears up for high-stakes clash with record champions Al Ahly

Rooney Onyango(left) and Boniface Omondi of Gor Mahia celebrate their victory against El Merreikh during CAF Champions league match at Nyayo National Stadium. August 25, 2024. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

Gor Mahia FC is preparing for a crucial showdown as they host Egypt's Al Ahly in the first leg of the CAF Champions League second preliminary round on Sunday at Nyayo National Stadium.

The Kenyan giants, buoyed by their recent success, will face off against the reigning CAF Champions League champions in what promises to be an electrifying encounter.

Gor Mahia's journey to this pivotal stage has been nothing short of remarkable. In the first round, they overcame a 1-0 deficit from their first leg against South Sudan's El Merreikh.

With the pressure on, K’Ogalo delivered a dominant performance at Nyayo Stadium on August 25, securing a stunning 5-1 victory and progressing with a 5-2 aggregate win.

This victory not only showcased the team’s resilience but also reinforced their reputation as fierce competitors in African football.

However, the challenge ahead is significantly tougher. Al Ahly, the record 11-time CAF Champions League winners, come into the tie as heavy favorites, but Gor Mahia is not daunted.

Head coach Leonardo Neiva acknowledged the enormity of the task, stating, "Al Ahly is the top club in Africa according to CAF rankings. But football is 11 vs. 11, and we have to push ourselves to maintain a high level of play. We must aim to win at home and gain an advantage for the away leg."

The Kenyan side will be banking on home-field advantage at Nyayo National Stadium, where their passionate supporters are expected to fill the stands.

Neiva emphasized the importance of the fans, calling on the "12th man" to play a crucial role. "It’s a massive match, and we urge the fans to come out and be that extra man for us. I hope to see a full stadium," he added.

Gor Mahia’s rich history of defying expectations, particularly on home soil, offers hope for the upcoming challenge. With the stakes high, the team will be fighting for progression to the group stage of the 2024/25 TotalEnergies CAF Champions League.

The return leg of the tie is set for Saturday, September 21, 2024, in Egypt, where Gor Mahia will aim to capitalize on any advantage they gain in Nairobi.

As the clock ticks down to kickoff, all eyes will be on Nyayo National Stadium, as K’Ogalo seeks to pull off a historic victory against one of Africa's football powerhouses.