Gor Mahia will face a tall order when they take on Renaissance Sportive Berkane of Morocco Min a Caf Confederation Cup quarter-final first leg on Sunday.
The Kenyan champions are in the last eight of the competition for the first time in history, while RS Berkane are making their debut this campaign.
Of concern for the Kenyan champions is the fact that they will have to play the crucial match without five of their key player – Shafik Batambuze, Ernest Wendo, Jacques Tuyisenge, Harun Shakava – who are suspended – and Boniface Oluoch, who is nursing a shoulder injury.
On top of that, coach Hassan Oktay will watch the match from the stands after he was sent off during their final Group D match against Petro Atletico of Angola.
Daily Active headlines the players who will be key for the Kenyan champions on Sunday.
1. Peter Odhiambo
The youngster is the reason why Gor Mahia made it to the last eight of the competition. After howlers committed by first-choice keeper Boniface Oluoch, Odhiambo was called to action and he did not disappoint. Made an average of four world-class saves in the away matches to keep the scoreline respectable.
2. Joash Onyango
With captain Harun Shakava suspended, Onyango is expected to marshal the back four. He is aggressive and never gives an opponent a chance to shoot in or outside the 18-yard area. He missed several matches for Gor Mahia due to a broken rib but he is back to help the side in a decisive moment.
3. Kenneth Muguna
He is the only midfielder who has stepped up for Gor Mahia consistently this campaign. The former MVP has an assist tohis name but that is not enough. He is required to feed the strikers and ensure he wins the ball in midfield. With Ernest Wendo suspended, all eyes will be on him.
4. Francis Kahata
The former Thika United star has been directly involved in two Gor Mahia goals, scoring once and assisting the other. He has been the creative mind for Gor Mahia and will be required to be at his best to help the team get a win on Sunday.
5. Nicholas Kipkirui
Yet to assist in the competition but has scored twice for Gor Mahia and has been a darling to watch in the flanks. It is his debut season for the team but has matured fast, becoming a key gong. His pace and dribbles will be of big importance against the North African side.
6. Dennis Oliech
The veteran striker is likely to start in the absence of suspended Jacques Tuyisenge and his experience will come be needed Despite his age, ‘ the 34-year-old can still fire K’Ogalo into the semis if given a chance. He has one goal to his name in the competition, the one he scored against Zamalek of Egypt, during their Group D opener.