Gor Mahia, Nairobi United brace for David versus Goliath FKF Cup final showdow

Gor Mahia's players during a training session/HANDOUT

Gor Mahia head coach Zedekiah 'Zico' Otieno has urged his players to punch above their weight and tuck away the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Cup title.

K'Ogalo's only hopes of gracing the international stage hinge on their fate in the eagerly awaited final against the newly promoted Kenyan Premier League side, Nairobi United—the plucky underdogs—at the hallowed turf of Ulinzi Sports Complex.

The two sides will flex muscles in the David versus Goliath matchup that promises a memorable and scintillating encounter.

The weight of expectation rests heavily on their shoulders, a burden amplified by the sibling rivalry between Gor's Benson Omalla and Nairobi United's Duncan Omalla—a personal battle within the larger war.

In an interview on Thursday, Zico said they have no option but to clinch the silverware to appease their loyal fanbase, who were greatly disappointed when the KPL record champions surrendered the title to Kenya Police.

"Everyone at the club knows the significance of Sunday's match. Our fans are eager to watch some international football next season and we must ensure we meet their expectations," Zico said.

"We've trained very hard and sealed all the loopholes that might expose us. We are looking forward to adding the FKF Cup trophy to our cabinet."

Meanwhile, Nicholas Muyoti, Nairobi United's tactician, exudes quiet confidence. His team, against all odds, has navigated a treacherous path, eliminating several KPL teams en route to the final.

Their journey is a compelling underdog story. Muyoti acknowledges the challenges—the complacency that followed their promotion, the mental hurdles they've had to overcome—but he sees the final not as an insurmountable obstacle but as a golden opportunity.

"The boys have been waiting for the trophy, and I will allow them to do so if they so desire," Muyoti said.

"It is amazing that we made it to the final, considering the many KPL teams we faced and how God's grace got us here. They now want to win it because they believe it will give them recognition as Confederation Cup players."

Nairobi United have risen quickly, but not without difficulties. They beat the odds to compete with Kenya's top football team thanks to their professionalism, tactical discipline, and belief in young players.

Muyoti arrived at Naibois with the sole goal of assembling a team that could compete on all fronts.

"This team was focused on getting promoted. I agreed when they came to me. Considering my players' performances, we should win," he said.

"It has not always gone smoothly. It has been psychological."

“The players got complacent after winning the league. If we wish to establish this team as a formidable force, we must immediately address this issue, as it is not professional."

In addition to earning the team their first major domestic championship, a victory would guarantee them a spot in the CAF Confederation Cup for the following season, a significant accomplishment for a team that played in the third division in 2023.

"They see it as a good chance to be recognised as players in the Confederation Cup, so they want to win it now," Muyoti reaffirmed.

A win on Sunday would demonstrate Nairobi United's ambition, validate the team's ascent, and provide players with opportunities to be seen on the continental scene.

For Muyoti, it comes down to belief, mindset, and igniting the passion in his young team.

"I will give them the freedom to go for it if they truly want the trophy. It is in their hands now," he observed.