5 Key Talking Points From Gor Mahia Tactical Masterclass Against KCB

K'Ogalo continued their winning ways with a hard-fought victory over KCB, decided by a lone goal in a dramatic affair.

After Gor Mahia registered their second victory under the tutelage of new coach Charles K. Akonnor, the record champions, continued to make a statement in the early stages of the 2025/26 FKF Premier League season.

The tense encounter at a packed Dandora Stadium saw new signing Felix Olouch score the decisive goal, moving K'Ogalo up the league table heading into the international break. 

While the three points provided a major boost, the match offered several crucial insights into the record champions' current form.

Pulse Sports looks at five key talking points from the victory.

PAY ATTENTION: Stay updated with the Latest Sports News in Kenya from Pulse Sports

5. Felix Olouch Announces His Arrival

A new hero may have been born for K’Ogalo. In just his second start since arriving from Posta Rangers, forward Felix Olouch announced his presence in style by netting the all-important winner.

Scoring his first goal for K’Ogalo in just his second start, Oluoch’s finish at the hour mark proved decisive. The goal came courtesy of a selfless assist from Ebenezer Adukwaw, who drove into the box before laying the ball square for the forward to tap home. 

Oluoch’s composed strike not only gave Gor the lead but also underlined the immediate value of their summer recruit. His performance adds a potent attacking option for Akonnor as Gor Mahia aims to challenge the league leaders.

4. Penalty Woes Continue for Austin Odhiambo

Despite Gor’s dominance, one area of concern remains their penalty execution. Austin Odhiambo, the 2023-2024 season MVP, failed to convert a second consecutive spot-kick, having also missed against Sofapaka last weekend.

Awarded a penalty in the 79th minute after being fouled by Elvis Ochieng, Odhiambo’s effort was comfortably saved by KCB goalkeeper Elvis Ochoro. While Gor secured the win, repeated penalty misses could become a focal point for Akonnor to address in training, especially if the team relies on individual brilliance in tight encounters.

3. Dominance Without a Cutting Edge

Throughout the first half, Gor Mahia were utterly dominant, controlling possession and camping in KCB’s final third. 

The midfield trio strung together slick passes, delighting the travelling fans and putting the Bankers under immense pressure. 

However, for all their territorial advantage, K’Ogalo struggled to create clear-cut chances, often failing to breach KCB's final defensive line. This lack of a decisive final ball or a clinical finish meant their dominance went unrewarded, allowing KCB to stay in the game. 

2. Adukwaw's Creative Spark

Ebenezer Adukwaw was a constant threat and arguably the creative engine behind Gor Mahia’s win. 

From the early minutes, his aerial presence was evident when his header from a free-kick went narrowly wide. 

However, his most significant contribution was the match-winning assist. Showcasing great vision and drive, Adukwaw sliced through the KCB defence before unselfishly laying the ball on a plate for Olouch instead of opting for a shot himself.

This piece of individual brilliance and teamwork was precisely the quality Gor Mahia needed to break the deadlock and underscores his importance to the team's attacking play.

1. K'Ogalo's Psychological Hold on KCB Continues

This victory was not just about three points; it was also a continuation of Gor Mahia's impressive record against KCB. 

The defeat extended the Bankers' winless run against K'Ogalo to nearly three years, with their last victory coming in January 2023. 

In the six meetings since, Gor has won twice while four have ended in draws. Despite KCB coach Robert Matano’s tactical adjustments, including an early first-half substitution to shore up his midfield, his side could not overcome the mental block. This psychological dominance gives Gor Mahia a significant edge every time these two teams meet.