Kenya's twenty-time champions, Gor Mahia, have organized friendly matches against TP Mazembe from the Democratic Republic of Congo, Rayon Sports from Rwanda, and Vipers SC from Uganda as part of their preparations for the upcoming CAF Champions League.
TP Mazembe, a multiple-time winner of the CAF Champions League, claimed their fifth title in 2015 by defeating USM Alger. With such an illustrious history, the club provides a fitting challenge for Gor Mahia as they embark on their journey in the Champions League preliminary round later this month.
Rayon Sports, nine-time champions of the Rwandan Premier League, have made nine appearances in CAF competitions, the latest being in 2020. Meanwhile, Vipers, the current Ugandan Premier League champions, have secured the league title on six occasions.
Gor Mahia's Secretary General, in anticipation of the friendlies, confirmed that all necessary arrangements had been made, with only the dates awaiting finalization. "We have been in communication with the management of the three teams, and we are just waiting to confirm the dates. However, these friendly matches will take place early next month as the first leg matches of the CAF competitions are scheduled for the weekend of August 19/20," stated Ochola.
Ochola also mentioned that the initial plans to hold friendly matches outside the country had been revised, and instead, the team would engage in games against local sides. "The friendlies will be held in Kenya, and the clubs have agreed to participate. However, we have decided not to travel for games outside the country as previously planned. Instead, we will intensify our preparations for the new season with several local friendlies," he explained.
Furthermore, Ochola assured fans that the club had made reinforcements to the squad, ensuring they would be competitive in the continental tournament. "I can guarantee our supporters that we will field a strong and competitive squad for the CAF competition. We don't want to be mere participants; we aim to be genuine contenders," he affirmed.
Gor Mahia, who are set to begin their preseason camp on Saturday, secured their place in the CAF preliminary round on the final day of the recently concluded FKF Premier League season. They sealed the title by defeating Nairobi City Stars 4-1, edging out their closest rivals, Tusker FC.
The opponents for Gor Mahia in the first round will be determined through a draw scheduled for next month. The first leg of the round is slated for the weekend of August 19/20, with the second leg taking place a week later on August 26/27.
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