Gor Mahia: How captain Philemon Otieno & other senior players are guiding K'Ogalo to record-extending title

Gor Mahia players celebrate in aprevious FKF Premier League fixture.

Gor Mahia: How captain Philemon Otieno & other senior players are guiding K'Ogalo to record-extending title

Stephen Awino 07:23 - 08.03.2025

Gor Mahia are locked in an exhilarating title race against Kenya Police and Tusker FC with captain Philemon Otieno and other senior players taking up key roles.

Gor Mahia captain Philemon Otieno has shed light on how he and other senior players are helping steer the club towards a record-extending 22nd FKF Premier League title.

Despite facing an uncertain future at the club, Otieno has taken on a crucial mentorship role within the squad.

Otieno, one of Gor Mahia’s longest-serving players, was initially deemed surplus to requirements in January.

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Alongside fellow veteran Ernest Wendo, the club had initially decided not to extend their contracts.

However, in a change of heart, Gor Mahia handed Otieno a six-month contract extension at the start of the year.

That decision appears to be paying off, as Otieno and other experienced players continue to provide valuable guidance to the team, even with their limited playing time.

The defender’s leadership has been instrumental in motivating the squad, particularly the younger players, as they push for another league triumph.

“We are moving, we are trying to motivate the young lads to give a good fight and make sure that we retain our title this season,” Otieno said in a post-match interview after Gor Mahia’s 3-1 victory over Kariobangi Sharks at Dandora Stadium.

In Wednesday’s match, Otieno was an unused substitute as Geoffrey Ochieng captained the side.

Goals from Alpha Onyango and Austine Odhiambo, who netted a brace, secured all three points for K’Ogalo.

Unlike previous seasons where Gor Mahia has dominated from the top, the team currently finds itself in the chasing pack.

However, Otieno remains unfazed, expressing confidence in their ability to achieve their season’s objectives.

“Well, we are not under any pressure. As you can see, the league is taking shape. As Gor Mahia, we had our goals when we started the season, and we are moving on very well. I’m happy with my team and what we are doing,” he affirmed.

Wednesday’s victory saw Gor Mahia reach 39 points, keeping them within touching distance of league leaders Kenya Police (42 points) and second-placed Tusker (41 points).

Crucially, K’Ogalo has a game in hand over both teams, giving them an advantage in the title race.

As the season progresses, Otieno’s leadership—on and off the pitch—will be crucial in ensuring Gor Mahia maintains its momentum and fights to reclaim its spot at the summit of Kenyan football.