Gor Mahia Facing Early CAF Champions League Exit After USM Alger Loss

ALGIERS, Algeria- Gor Mahia FC are staring at an early exit after suffering a 4-1 defeat to USM Alger in a first round CAF Champions League match at the Stade Mustapha Tchaker in Bilda on Sunday night.

Mohamed Rabie scored twice in the first half, including a penalty after goalkeeper David Mapigano committed a foul in the penalty box.

Gor Mahia’s lone goal came early in the second half from the spot as well, captain Kenneth Muguna stepping up to send Ismael Mansour the wrong way.

Last season K’Ogalo managed to reach the quarterfinals of the CAF Confederations Cup for the first time in their history under the tutelage of Hassan Oktay, who resigned last month.

Mohamed Rabie scored the opener in the 16th minute, sending in a volley from inside the box after a good cross from Muaid Ellafi on the left flank. 

MUST READ: Aubameyang Brace Not Enough As Arsenal Settle For Point At Watford

Rabie doubled his side's lead in the 45th minute from the spot after Gor Mahia custodian David Mapigano was adjudged to have fouled him in the box. 

Algeria Under 23 International Zakaria Benchaa made it 3-0 with brilliant curler into the corner as the game went to the breather with the Algerian champions firmly in control. 

Play was stopped for a minute after Gor Mahia striker Nicholas Kipkirui was elbowed by Hamza Kudri in the 47th minute and had to be attended to my medics.

Muguna took the resultant freekick but USM keeper Ismael Mansour easily picked it. Samuel Onyango came in for the injured Kipkirui a few minutes later.

READ ALSO: AFC Leopards Hold Sharks In Barren Draw, KCB Still Top Despite All Stars Stalemate

K’Ogalo pulled one back in the 55th minute, captain Muguna sending Mansouri the wrong way after Charles Momanyi's goal-bound shot was handled in the box. 

Gor are set to return to Nairobi on Monday to switch their focus to the SportPesa Premier League (SPL) with a game in hand against Chemelil Sugar FC on Wednesday afternoon.