Gor Mahia’s interim coach, Zedekiah ‘Zico’ Otieno, has acknowledged the formidable challenge posed by FKF Premier League leaders Tusker FC as the two football giants prepare for a high-stakes showdown at Kenyatta Stadium this Sunday.
Tusker FC recently ascended to the top of the league standings, overtaking KCB with a narrow 1-0 victory over Bandari. This win marked a recovery from their previous 2-1 defeat to Shabana at Gusii Stadium.
With 30 points, Tusker now leads the league, sitting three points ahead of KCB and Police FC, both tied at 27 points. Gor Mahia, trailing by six points, has the advantage of three games in hand.
“We are well-prepared and the team is in good shape. Thankfully, we have no injuries, so everyone is available for Sunday’s game,” Otieno stated. “It’s going to be a tough match, but we’re ready for the challenge. Before our recent break, we had a grueling schedule of eight matches in 20 days. Now, after some much-needed rest, we believe we can take on Tusker, a strong team. However, Gor Mahia is the defending champion, and we are determined to prove our worth.”
Gor Mahia’s squad has been strengthened by the return of key players Alpha Onyango, Sylvester Owino, Ronney Onyango, and Austin Oduor, who were part of the Harambee Stars team at the Mapinduzi Cup in Zanzibar.
Otieno expressed confidence despite the demanding schedule ahead, which includes crucial matches against Sofapaka and Homeboyz. “We are aware of the tough fixtures ahead. After Tusker, we face Sofapaka and Homeboyz. Our focus is on one match at a time, and the boys are prepared. They understand the importance of each game and approach every match with professionalism.”
Tusker FC, under the leadership of Charles Okere, will also be bolstered by the return of midfielder Chrispine Erambo and striker Ryan Wesley Ogam, both fresh from national duty. However, the team faces a setback with the departure of playmaker Shaphan Oyugi Siwa to Kagera Sugar FC in Tanzania and the continued absence of Mike Kibwage due to a knee injury. Thomas Teka Omenda is expected to step up in Kibwage’s absence.
Elsewhere in the league, KCB aims to reclaim the top spot when they face Nairobi City Stars, who recently parted ways with coach Nicholas Muyoti. Saturday’s fixtures feature Kariobangi Sharks hosting Ulinzi Stars, Kakamega Homeboyz taking on Bidco United, and Mathare United visiting Mara Sugar in Awendo.
Bandari FC, struggling with a five-match winless streak, will seek redemption against Shabana at Mombasa Sports Club. Meanwhile, in-form Kenya Police will host Murang’a Seal at Police Sacco Stadium, hoping for favorable results from Tusker and KCB to leapfrog to the top of the standings.
With the FKF Premier League heating up, all eyes are on the thrilling encounters this weekend, as teams battle for supremacy in one of the most competitive seasons to date.
