Former AFC Leopards Captain Lewis Bandi in Line For Sensational Gor Mahia Debut at Upcoming 98th Mashemeji Derby

Record FKF Premier League champions Gor Mahia have been handed a significant boost as two key defenders return to full training ahead of their clash with arch-rivals AFC Leopards.

The highly anticipated Mashemeji Derby will now be taking place on December 7th , at Nyayo National Stadium after being initially moved a day earlier from its original schedulingf to 29th November.

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While the fixture was initially in doubt due to the unavailability of both Nyayo and Kasarani stadiums, Gor Mahia has reportedly secured the venue for the showdown.

In a timely development for K'Ogalo, former AFC Leopards captain Lewis Bandi has recovered from a long-term injury. The defender made a controversial switch from Leopards to Gor Mahia during the off-season transfer window, a move that surprised the Ingwe leadership, who had expected him to extend his contract.

However, the 22-year-old has yet to make his debut for Gor Mahia after a three-month spell on the sidelines. Speaking on Friday, November 21, coach Charles Akonnor confirmed Bandi's return.

"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," Akonnor stated as reported by Mozzart Sport.

Adding to the good news, Gor Mahia's assistant captain, Geoffrey "Simiti" Ochieng, has also rejoined the squad in full training. Ochieng has been out of action since last season after suffering a knee injury that required minor surgery in June.

The return of the two defenders provides a major lift for the team just days before they battle for three points and crucial bragging rights against their eternal rivals.

Meanwhile, the club remains concerned about the fitness of Cameroonian forward Patrick Essombe, who was absent from the recent match against Tusker due to a knock.