Derby hero Onyango sets tone for title run as Gor Mahia stretch lead

Gor Mahia midfielder Alpha Onyango celebrates his goal with teammate Ebenezer Assifuah during the Mashemeji Derby at Nyayo Stadium/HANDOUT 

Gor Mahia assistant captain Alpha Onyango has reinforced the team’s title credentials, saying the league trophy is now the clear objective after a hard-earned derby win against archrivals AFC Leopards over the weekend.

In an exclusive interview, Onyango said the squad now carries both responsibility and belief as the season enters its decisive stage.

“I believe we will win the league,” Onyango stated. “This is where Gor Mahia belongs—at the top. We have to stay focused, remain disciplined, and finish what we have started.”

The midfielder, who scored the decisive goal in the 1–0 derby win at Nyayo Stadium, said the victory reflected the team’s maturity and growing mental strength under pressure.

“We knew the importance of the derby,” he added. “It was about pride, about history, and about our supporters. We stayed patient, and when the chance came, we took it.”

The result strengthened Gor Mahia’s position at the summit of the table, where they now sit six points clear with only five matches remaining.

Gor Mahia lead the league with 61 points from 29 matches, with Leopards second five points adrift.

The derby win also triggered a financial reward from club patron Eliud Owalo, who fulfilled his pre-match pledge by presenting Sh1 million to the squad during a luncheon held at a Nairobi hotel on Monday.

“I believe we have what it takes to win the league, especially after yesterday’s win in the derby,” Owalo said. “In fulfilling my promise, I want to thank the players for giving us the victory.”

He, however, urged caution and discipline as the season approaches its final stretch.

“Take each game at a time. The next match away at Kakamega will be crucial in advancing our title hopes,” he added.

Forward Chris Ochieng' echoed his captain’s sentiments, crediting tactical discipline and team preparation for the derby success.

“It is a great feeling,” Ochieng said. “The derby is always intense, but we stayed focused on our game plan. The instructions from the technical bench helped us stay sharp, especially in taking chances when they came.”

Ochieng also praised the supporters, describing them as a key driving force behind the team’s performances.

“Our fans are our 12th man. Their energy pushes us in every match,” he said.

Club chairman Ambrose Rachier expressed satisfaction with the team’s progress, noting that the focus has now shifted to finishing the league strongly and preparing for continental competition.

“This team has shown great maturity and resilience,” Rachier said. “Our immediate goal is to defend the league title and ensure qualification for continental football.”

He revealed plans to strengthen the squad ahead of potential CAF Champions League commitments.

“We are looking to strengthen the squad across all areas to remain competitive at the highest level,” he added.

Gor Mahia’s next fixture will see them travel to Kakamega to face Kakamega Homeboyz at Bukhungu Stadium on Sunday.

With momentum on their side, a growing points cushion, and renewed belief in the dressing room, Onyango’s bold declaration has now become the defining tone of Gor Mahia’s title push: calm, confident, and uncompromising.