Kenyan champions Gor Mahia and Sudan’s El Merreikh are lined up to play Ethiopia’s St. George FC between January 10-15,2016. The two friendly matches will be a culmination of a year long activities marking the 80th anniversary celebrations of the historical Ethiopian club.

Merreikh was in the initial plans for the festivities while Gor was slotted in at the last minute in place of eight times African Champions Al Ahly of Egypt who could not honor their invitation due to tight league schedule back at home.

The development was communicated on Saturday 19 at a press conference by the organizing committee at Shoraton, Addis.

Formed in 1935 by Greeks during Ethiopia invasion by Italy, St. George nicknamed “Kidus Giorgis” is rich in history, and is regarded as a symbol of Ethiopian nationalism and a representation of the country’s quest for liberation.

St. George boasts twenty six league crowns, nine Ethiopia Cup honors and eight Super Cups. They are currently third on the Ethiopian Premier League log with six points after three rounds.

Neider dos Santos’ side will also be using the two matches as part of preparations for the CAF Champions League preliminaries against St. Michael United of Seychelles in February 2016.

Gor’s management is aware of the invite but are yet to confirm participation.

@bonfaceosano