captionGor Mahia coach Charles Akonnor has called for ruthlessness in front of goal as the record Kenyan champions face Sofapaka in a SportPesa League match at Dandora Stadium on Saturday.
K’Ogalo opened their campaign with a 1-0 loss to Bidco United despite dominating possession and carving out numerous chances. Akonnor, taking charge of his debut competitive match, admitted that his side’s profligacy in front of goal cost them dearly.
“The loss is unfortunate. We controlled 70 per cent of the game, created opportunities, but couldn’t find the back of the net. We were a bit careless in defence, but I can’t blame the boys...they gave their all,” he said.
The Ghanaian’s immediate focus is on converting chances, noting that possession without goals means little at the top level.
“All we need to do is work on how we create those chances and, more importantly, how to finish them. We were on the front foot, but our opponents defended resolutely,” Akonnor explained.
For him, the difference between a dominant team and a winning one lies in the ability to score.
This match is crucial for both sides as they seek to keep in touching distance of the summit. Sofapaka began their season with a hard-fought 1–1 draw against AFC Leopards. Akonnor believes his team can bounce back.
“To be successful, we need to work hard. When you create chances and don’t score, it becomes a significant issue. That is what we are going to fix. I am positive about my boys,” he reiterated.
The coach has emphasised drills on composure and decision-making in the final third. Strikers have been tasked with sharpening their movement, while midfielders are expected to provide more precise service.
“We have quality in attack. It’s only a matter of time before the goals start coming. Confidence is key, and once we score early, you will see the best of Gor Mahia,” Akonnor stated.
Sofapaka, historically a tough opponent, will not be easy to break down. Their defensive solidity and counter-attacking style present a different test from Bidco United.
However, Gor Mahia, buoyed by their vast experience and passionate fan base, see this as the perfect chance to reignite their title bid.
Perfect — let’s turn the fixture list into a proper news-style section, flowing like part of the article instead of a bullet list.
Sofapaka, who began their campaign with a spirited 1–1 draw against AFC Leopards, are eager to show they can match the champions. Coach Ezekiel Akwana believes his side can deliver a memorable result.
“Facing Gor Mahia is always special. We respect them, but we are not afraid. My boys showed fighting spirit against AFC Leopards, and if we maintain that intensity, we can get a result at home,” Akwana stated.
The round kicks off on Friday afternoon when KCB take on Mathare United at Kasarani Annex. The bankers enter the fixture with confidence after beating Tusker 2-0 in their opener, a statement victory that underlined their intent to challenge this season.
Coach Robert Matano believes his team has what it takes to build on that result.
“We showed character and discipline against Tusker. That win gave us momentum, and now we want to maintain it. Mathare is a good team, but our focus is on controlling the game and finishing strongly,” Matano said.
Mathare United, however, arrive with determination to put things right after losing 2-1 to Posta Rangers on Monday.
Coach John Kamau insists the Slum Boys are not discouraged. “We lost narrowly to Posta, but I believe in my players. We must turn our chances into goals. This match against KCB is a chance to prove that Mathare can compete and collect our first points,” Kamau declared.
The clash promises an intriguing battle between KCB’s experience and Mathare’s youthful hunger.
Saturday begins with an early kick-off at Dandora Stadium, where Posta Rangers meet Tusker. Rangers started strongly with a 2-1 win over Mathare and will look to continue their fine form against a wounded Tusker side.
Tusker, under coach Charles Okere, knows they cannot afford another setback so early in the campaign.
