Defender Mike Kibwage is set to take on an even bigger responsibility when K’Ogalo face Egyptian giants Pyramids FC in the CAF Champions League today, with the experienced centre-back expected to lead the sqaud n the absence of injured captain Sylvester Owino.

Kibwage, Gor Mahia’s first assistant captain, has already demonstrated his leadership credentials since joining the club’s new leadership structure.

With Owino sidelined, the defender has stepped into the role of stand-in captain and will now carry the armband in one of Gor Mahia’s biggest assignments of the season.

The match at Nyayo Stadium will, however, carry an additional significance for Kibwage as he prepares to make his CAF Champions League debut.

The 28-year-old has already gained valuable big-match experience, including captaining Gor Mahia during the CECAFA Kagame Cup in Rwanda.

He also wore the armband when K’Ogalo thrashed APR FC 5-0, even scoring the opening goal in that encounter.

His elevation to the captaincy comes at a crucial moment for K’Ogalo.

Owino was appointed club captain in July following the retirement of long-serving skipper Philemon Otieno, with Kibwage and Alpha Onyango named as his assistants.

Now, with the captain unavailable, Kibwage has the opportunity to combine his defensive responsibilities with leadership as Gor Mahia return to the continental stage.