We’re on track to retain our title, says Gor Mahia coach
Tusker's Ryan Ogam (righ) vies for the ball with Gor Mahia’s midfielder Alphonce Omija during their FKF Premier League match at Kenyatta Stadium in Machakos on February 16, 2025.
What you need to know:
- Coach Mihic, 48, took pride in his team’s control and style of play, stating that the dominance and possession displayed signified progress in implementing his football philosophy.
- “My team was solid, the combination was superb, we made more crosses, were calm, and played good football. We had 80 percent of the attacking play, and the Green Army is back. As a football coach, I see us winning the title if we continue playing this way,” said an elated Mihic.
Gor Mahia head coach Sinisa Mihic is confident that his team is on the right path to retaining the Football Kenya Federation Premier League (FKF-PL) title. His optimism followed a goalless draw against Tusker FC at Kenyatta Stadium, Machakos on Sunday.
In another fixture, Shabana FC coach Peter Okidi lamented his team’s wasted chances after they were held to a 0-0 draw by visiting Mathare United at Gusii Stadium in Kisii County.
In Machakos, despite the absence of star midfielder Austin Odhiambo, who is sidelined with an injury, Gor Mahia dominated the match. Defender Rooney Onyango made his return to action in the 66th minute, his first appearance since December 22.
Coach Mihic, 48, took pride in his team’s control and style of play, stating that the dominance and possession displayed signified progress in implementing his football philosophy.
“My team was solid, the combination was superb, we made more crosses, were calm, and played good football. We had 80 percent of the attacking play, and the Green Army is back. As a football coach, I see us winning the title if we continue playing this way,” said an elated Mihic.
“The transition can be likened to big teams in Europe. We are a better team, I’m happy we are back. Gor Mahia is back, and I believe we will be champions,” he added.
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Since his appointment on February 3, Mihic has overseen two matches, securing a 2-1 win against Mathare United before the draw with Tusker. He expressed satisfaction with his team’s reaction and progress under his guidance.
Tusker head coach Charles Okere accepted the draw as a fair result, emphasising the need to improve in attack.
“It was a cagey game, my boys managed a clean sheet, but we need to add more power in attack, and we will work on it. The point is satisfactory and contributes to our tally,” said Okere.
The result sees Tusker remain second on the league table with 39 points from 21 matches, while Gor Mahia sit third with 35 points from 20 matches. Kenya Police, who beat Bidco United 2-0 on Saturday lead the log with 41 points.
At Gusii Stadium, Mathare United goalkeeper Michael Wanyika delivered a man-of-the-match performance, making crucial saves to deny Shabana FC and secure a 0-0 draw.
Shabana head coach Peter Okidi lamented his team’s wastefulness in front of goal, admitting that poor finishing cost them maximum points.
“We had many scoring opportunities, but we did not take them. Their goalkeeper was top class, but we must start scoring goals to win matches. This is an area we will work on,” said Okidi.
Wanyika was tested as early as the 5th minute, making a brilliant save to deny Dennis Okoth, who had been set up by Douglas Mokaya.
The custodian also made crucial second-half saves to keep out Darius Msagha and Brian Michira in one-on-one situations.
Mathare United coach John Kamau hailed Wanyika’s heroics, crediting him for keeping the 'Slum Boys' in the game.
“There were moments in the first half where our goalkeeper kept us in the game. I want to salute him for his outstanding performance,” said Kamau.
Following the draw, Shabana are eighth on the table with 29 points from 21 matches, while Mathare United sit 14th with 22 points from 20 matches.