Benson Omala's Mashemeji derby fate hangs in the balance as Gor Mahia issue update

Gor Mahia striker Benson Omalla. Photo. Imago

Benson Omala's Mashemeji derby fate hangs in the balance as Gor Mahia issue update

Evans Ousuru 10:43 - 26.03.2025

Gor Mahia have issued an update on the availability of striker Benson Omalla ahead of the Mashemeji derby.

The crowd-pulling Mashemeji derby is finally set to be played on March 30 at the Nyayo Stadium.

The match, pitting traditional rivals AFC Leopards who is the home team against Gor Mahia, is expected to have fireworks as both teams continue to chase their season objectives.

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Gor Mahia, however, are facing the prospect of missing another important player for the must-win clash. The record FKF Premier League champions are already without their all-action right back Ronney Onyango who is expected to return to Norway this week to complete his month-ong trials with second-tier club Sogndal Football as previously reported by Pulse  Sports.

The league defending champions will make do without the services of striker Benson Omala for the derby. The striker rejoined Gor Mahia in the mid-season transfer window but is yet to be cleared by his Lebanese Premier League side Safa SC.

Gor Mahia CEO Raymond Oruo told Mozzart Sports“No clearance yet. The matter has been referred to FIFA player status."

The 23-year-old joined Lebanese Premier League side Safa SC after a stellar performance with Gor Mahia but his stay was cut short after suffering an injury coupled with security concerns in the country back in late 2024.

The former Western Sima striker was forced to return home after instability was witnessed in the West African country. Omala, who was the 2023-24 season top scorer with 19 goals, is yet to be issued with an International Transfer Certificate (ITC).

The transfer saga was anticipated as Safa had initially indicated that Omala is still their player and must return to Lebanon to play as he is not up for sale.

Omala has also featured for the Kenya U20 and U23 sides and finished second-best scorer in the 2022–23 season while turning out for Gor Mahia. 

His absence in the derby will be a blow for Gor Mahia considering that Omalla is always a player for big occasions if his goal-scoring exploits is anything to go by.

K'Ogallo face a herculean task to successfully defend their title since Police and Tusker are ranked above them on the log although Gor Mahia have played a game less.