Gor Mahia players during a previous match/HANDOUTGor Mahia finally begin title defence against revamped SEAL Reigning champions Gor Mahia finally launch their SportPesa League title defence on Tuesday night when they face revamped Murang’a SEAL in a floodlit clash at Nyayo National Stadium.
The eagerly awaited 7 pm encounter, initially scheduled for an earlier date, was postponed to make way for the Safari Sevens rugby tournament, giving both sides additional time to prepare for their opening league assignment.
For Gor, the match offers an immediate opportunity to shift focus from their disappointing CAF Champions League campaign and begin the pursuit of a record-extending 23rd league title. Coach Charles Akonnor wants his players to put their continental disappointment behind them after they were eliminated by Egyptian giants Pyramids FC.
“The Champions League is over; we have got to focus. The draw was a little harsh on us, but that is not an excuse,” said the Ghanaian tactician. Akonnor has a significantly remodelled squad at his disposal after Gor strengthened in almost every department during the off-season.
Goalkeeper Humphrey Katasi, defenders Daniel Sakari and Ghanaian centre-back Ebenezer Ocran, and Portipher Odhiambo are among the new arrivals, while Enock Machaga and Lesley Owino have added depth to midfield.
Uganda international Denis Omedi, Ulinzi Stars forward Paul Okoth, Hansel Ochieng and David Okoth have bolstered the attack. But Akonnor knows the champions cannot afford to take SEAL lightly, having experienced the Murang’a side’s ability to cause problems.
“The league is tough, and I like it. Even if you are on top, you are not safe. You have to stay alert every single time,” he said. SEAL, ready to spring another surprise, survived relegation last season and have responded by conducting a major overhaul of their squad, releasing 16 players and recruiting 12 new faces.
Coach Dennis Odhiambo believes the changes have created a side capable of competing rather than surviving in the top flight. “We approach it like any other match; it’s a league game. Whether we play against Gor Mahia or any other team, our preparations are always geared towards ensuring we collect maximum points. We are not just participating; we are competing,” Odhiambo said.
Nashon Nanyendo, Francis Memusi, Josphat Lopaga and Davis Omiko are among the newcomers, with Ian Mahonga, Majaliwa Charo Jefwa, Gideon Omondi and Ally Yusuf strengthening midfield options. SEAL will also draw confidence from their previous meetings with Gor, notably the match in which they raced into a two-goal lead before the champions fought back to win 3-2.
Odhiambo expects his charges to remain disciplined, compact and alert, particularly when Gor begin to apply pressure. “We have to stay focused from the first minute. The league gives you no room to relax,” he said.
The visitors are expected to defend in numbers, congest the central areas and look to hit Gor on the break, while Akonnor will demand greater defensive concentration after individual errors contributed to their continental exit.
