FKF Premier League champions Gor Mahia are set to face El Merreikh FC Bentiu of South Sudan in the preliminary round of the CAF Champions League.

The draw, which took place on Thursday afternoon, features 59 clubs from 47 African nations competing in this prestigious tournament.

Gor Mahia will begin their journey in the continental competition with an away match against the South Sudanese club between August 16 and 18.

The return leg will take place a week later in Kenya, setting the stage for what promises to be an exhilarating clash.

This match-up marks Gor Mahia’s return to the CAF Champions League after a three-year absence.

Previously, despite winning the Kenyan league, they were ineligible to compete due to failing to meet club licensing requirements, particularly concerning financial obligations to former foreign players.

However, this year, the team has settled its debts and secured the necessary license to participate.

The stakes are high as the winner of this two-legged tie will face the defending champions Al Ahly of Egypt in the second round.

The ultimate goal is to advance to the group stages of the competition.

Gor Mahia’s last exclusion from the tournament was a hard lesson but it has led to significant organizational improvements.

The club has demonstrated a renewed commitment to governance and financial responsibility ensuring that past mistakes do not hinder their future prospects.

This preparation has ignited hope among fans that K’Ogalo can make a notable impact on their return to continental football.

K’Ogalo have a storied history in African football having lifted theFKF Premier League title a record 21 times.

Their last substantial performance in the CAF Champions League dates back years and fans are eager to see if this season can mark a turning point.