This archive report was first published on 28 October 2019.
On Sunday, October 27, 2019, Gor Mahia hosted DC Motema Pembe of the DR Congo in a Caf Confederation Cup play-off match at the Moi International Sports Centre in Nairobi.
The match was marked by two physical brawls, which occurred within 15 minutes of each other, and a series of controversies that threatened to derail the game.
The drama began in the dugout, where a brawl broke out after match stewards decided to vet everyone in the Motema Pembe camp who intended to access the pitch from the main entrance.
According to eyewitnesses, 'about 50 punches exchanged hands' in the initial brawl.
Later, the game was temporarily stopped when the match commissioner ordered Gor goalkeeper David Mapigano to change his jersey, citing a colour clash with the opponents' uniform.
Shoving between players of the two teams ensued during the jersey change, further escalating tensions.
Despite the drama, Gor Mahia managed to snatch a 1-1 draw from the jaws of defeat, with the 27-time Congolese champions missing a late penalty.
Hosts defender Charles Momanyi was sent off for handling the ball on the line, but the Kenyan champions will count themselves lucky for the draw.
