Boost for Gor Mahia as former Leopards captain resumes full training ahead of Mashemeji Derby

Record FKF Premier League champions Gor Mahia have received a major injury boost ahead of their match against their eternal rivals, AFC Leopards.

The two Kenyan giants will clash on Saturday, 29 November at the Nyayo National Stadium from 3 pm, in a match dubbed the Mashemeji Derby.

Follow our WhatsApp channel for more news

While the derby had initially been shrouded with doubt due to the unavailability of both Nyayo and Kasarani facilities, Go Mahia are understood to have secured a venue for the match.

Gor Mahia's preparations for the match have been boosted by the return of Lewis Bandi from a long injury layoff.

The defender ditched Leopards for Gor Mahia in the off-season transfer window, a move that appeared to catch Ingwe's leadership flat-footed as they had hoped he would renew his stay at the den.

However, the 22-year-old is yet to feature for K’Ogalo after picking up an injury that has kept him out of action for three months.

New date, venue for first leg of Mashemeji Derby announced

Speaking on Friday, 21 November, coach Charles Akonnor revealed that Bandi had resumed training.

“We are delighted to welcome back Bandi, who has been out for a long time with an injury and is now in contention to play,” said Akonnor.

Besides Bandi, Gor Mahia vice captain Geoffrey ‘Simiti’ Ochieng also joined the team in full training.

Six key lessons from FKF Premier League matchweek 10

Ochieng has not featured for the team since last season when he suffered a knee injury that necessitated a minor surgery in June.

The return of the two defenders comes just a few days before the derby, where the two giants will contest for the three points and bragging rights as well.

Meanwhile, the club is sweating over the fitness of Cameroonian forward Patrick Essombe, who missed out on the Tusker clash with a knock.