Gor host USM in chase for slot in group stages
Football
By
Gilbert Wandera
| Sep 29, 2019
Algerian side USM Alger stand in the way of Gor Mahia as the Kenyan side tries to make history by qualifying to the group stages of the CAF Champions League tournament when the sides clash this afternoon at Kasarani.
Away in Tunisia, another Kenyan side Bandari will be hoping to write a new chapter in their history books when they take on US Ben Guerdane in the return match of the CAF Confederations Cup.
The Dockers won the first leg 2-0 and will make it to the group stages of the tournament by just protecting their lead in Tunisia.
In the Champions League, the prospect of earning Sh55 million is expected to be a big motivation for Gor Mahia today.
Gor go into this match with a huge disadvantage having lost the first leg 4-1 in Algeria and have the burden of scoring three goals without reply.
READ MORE
Doctors set 90-day ultimatum for pay talks, warn of strike
Kenya, Italy adopt four-year cooperation plan after Ruto-Meloni talks
Team captain Kenneth Muguna has insisted it will be a battle of two quality teams and his side remains motivated despite financial challenges affecting them.
“We have a strong desire to make it to the group stages and improve on last season’s performance. We urge our fans to come out in large numbers as we need their support,” he said.
Coach Steven Polack said his players have learnt from mistakes made in the first leg and are adapting well to new tactics.
Gor Mahia will look to their good record at home for inspiration in overcoming the Algerian side.
Last year, Gor Mahia beat Egyptian giants Zamalek 4-2 at home in one of their biggest wins against North African opposition.
Gor have not had problems scoring goals and have netted 13 times in five matches so far.
Among their hopefuls for goals is Nicholas Kipkurui who is tipped to have a good season at the continental stage.
Gor Mahia will also have to be mean at the back after letting in so many goals in the first leg match.
Joash Onyango and Wellingtone Ochieng will have to be at their best knowing that any more lapse will sink the club further.
In Tunis, Bandari coach Bernard Mwalala insists they still have to fight despite carrying a two-goal advantage in today’s match.
In the yesterday’s KPL matches, Tusker pipped Sofapaka 3-1 at Machakos Kenyatta Stadium.
Kariobangi Sharks and Mathare United fought to a barren draw in the slum derby played at the same venue.