This archive report was first published on 29 October 2019.
Published on October 29, 2019
Gor Mahia's hopes of advancing to the group stage of the Caf Confederation Cup hang in the balance after a 1-1 draw against Motema Pembe in the first leg at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani on Sunday.
Despite dominating the match, Gor Mahia's rusty performance in front of goal saw them fail to capitalize on several scoring opportunities, with Dickson Ambundo, Kenneth Muguna, and Nicholas Kipkururi all missing chances in the opening half.
However, newcomer Yikpe Gieslien powered home the opening goal after capitalizing on a free-flowing move by the hosts, only for Motema Pembe to equalize from a well-worked free-kick that was initially saved by Gor keeper David Mapigano.
"They are an average side but work very hard," boasted Motema Pembe's William Likuta after the game.
Gor coach Steven Polack has to conjure up an away win this weekend or force a scored draw of more than four goals to guarantee group stage qualification for the third consecutive time.
"We will have to be more clinical to stand a chance. I will work to improve on everything, including our defence," said Polack.
Motema Pembe are seeking to continue with their history of eliminating Kenyan clubs from continental competition, having easily beaten a star-studded Kenya Breweries (now Tusker) side in the final of the continental Cup Winners Cup back in 1994.
Polack said they were scheduled to fly out of Nairobi on Friday and conducted a training session for players who did not see action in the match against DC Motema at Camp Toyoyo grounds on Monday.
