This archive report was first published on 16 September 2019.
USM Alger vs Gor Mahia: Algerian Giants Suffer Blow in Champions League Bid ¶
On Sunday, September 15, 2019, Gor Mahia's pursuit of a Caf Champions League slot took a hit after a 4-1 defeat at the hands of USM Alger in the first leg of the round one fixture.
The match, played at Omar Hamadi stadium in Algeria, saw the hosts dominate from the onset, with USM Alger breaking the deadlock in the 16th minute through Mohamed Rabie Meftah, who was set up by Muaid Ellafi on the wing.
Meftah doubled the lead from the penalty spot a minute before half-time after being brought down in the box by Gor Mahia's David Mapigano. Zakaria Benchaa completed the first half rampage with a brilliant curler into the corner moments later.
Despite a spirited effort, Gor Mahia's hopes of reducing the deficit were further dampened, with Benchaa scoring USM Alger's fourth goal and his brace on the night off a rebound of a well-taken free-kick.
However, in-form forward Kenneth Muguna pulled one back for the visitors in the 56th minute with a well-taken penalty that was awarded after a USM Alger handling the ball in the box.
The KPL giants will now be seeking to make amends in the second leg of the fixture to be played in Nairobi for a chance to make it to the group stages of the continental showpiece.
