Gor Mahia are gearing up for a significant showdown against Egyptian giants and defending CAF Champions League champions Al Ahly in the first leg of the preliminary round this Sunday afternoon at Nyayo National Stadium.The highly anticipated clash, set for 3 PM local time, will pit Kenya’s record league winners against Africa’s most successful football club.##NAJAVA_MECA_8333898##K’Ogalo will be aiming to defy expectations by overcoming the 12-time African champions, a task that promises to be anything but easy. Adding to the challenge, they will be keen to avoid a second consecutive defeat for a Kenyan team at the hands of an Egyptian side within 24 hours, after Kenya Police FC lost 1-0 to Zamalek in the CAF Confederation Cup on Saturday.Gor advanced to this stage after an impressive 5-2 aggregate comeback win over South Sudan’s Al Mereikh Bentiu last month. Al Ahly, ranked higher, received a bye in the opening round.As they approach the match, Gor Mahia may be without first-choice goalkeeper Kevin Omondi, who suffered an injury during training. If he is not cleared, either Caleb Omondi or Gad Mathews is expected to step in. Another concern for coach Leonardo Neiva lies in the attacking department, following the departure of prolific striker Benson Omala. The coach will rely on the likes of Chris Ochieng, Gedeon Bendeka, and Patrick Kaddu to fill the void and deliver goals.On a positive note, defender Alphonce Omija returned to training on Thursday after recovering from a knee injury sustained on international duty against Zimbabwe. His availability offers a timely boost for the team.All 36 National Super League players who have moved to FKF Premier LeagueCoach Neiva acknowledges that Al Ahly are favorites but remains optimistic about his side’s chances. “Al Ahly are favorites on paper, but anything can happen. Simba from Tanzania beat Al Ahly, and even Gor Mahia beat Zamalek before, so it’s 11 against 11. It won’t be easy when we go to Egypt, so we want to give ourselves the best chance here at home. We have a big opportunity to do so.”Neiva also urged fans to come out in large numbers and support the team. “I want to ask all our supporters to fill the Nyayo Stadium. In Egypt, the stadium will be packed, and we need that same energy here in Nairobi to give our players the 12th man advantage.”Al Ahly have traveled with several new signings, including defender Youssef Ayman from Qatari club Al-Duhail SC, midfielder Omar El-Saaiy from Ismaily, Moroccan left-back Yahia Attiyat Allah from Russian side PFC Sochi, and defender Achraf Dari from French club Brest.Talanta’s Jackline Juma creates more history as Tusker capitulate against Sharks
