Gor Mahia Goalkeeper Airlifted to Nairobi After Sudden Illness in Mombasa

Gor Mahia goalkeeper Gad Mathews has been airlifted to Nairobi for specialized medical care after being taken ill in Mombasa on Friday, October 10, 2025.

The 27-year-old shot-stopper fell sick just hours before Gor Mahia’s ODM@20 final against Bandari FC, forcing him to miss the match entirely.

The illness struck unexpectedly on Friday morning when Mathews complained of severe abdominal pain while in camp with his teammates.

According to officials, the pain intensified as the hours went by, prompting an emergency hospital admission in Mombasa for further examination and treatment.

Team sources revealed that the situation initially appeared minor, but quickly escalated, leaving the club medical team with no option but to hospitalize the player. The sudden development shocked teammates and fans, as Mathews had been expected to start in goal for the highly anticipated final.

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After two days of close observation, doctors confirmed that the player’s condition had stabilized but recommended that he be flown to Nairobi for extended treatment and advanced medical assessment.

“On the morning of Friday, Gad Mathew experienced abdominal pain that gradually worsened over time. Due to the increasing severity of the pain, he was taken to the hospital where he has been admitted for further investigations and treatment,” stated Team Doctor Brian Odongo.

Dr. Odongo added that Mathews would be discharged later today before being airlifted to Nairobi for specialized follow-up care. He confirmed that while the player’s condition is stable, his current state does not allow for long ground travel such as the team’s scheduled 3 p.m. train journey to Nairobi.

To ensure the goalkeeper’s safety and comfort during the transfer, Team Captain Philemon Otieno and Second Team Doctor Joash Odhiambo have remained behind in Mombasa to assist with the discharge process and accompany him to the airport.

“The medical team and the club have handled the situation very professionally,” said a source within Gor Mahia’s camp.

“The priority now is Gad’s full recovery before he can return to training.”

In a statement, Gor Mahia expressed solidarity with their long-serving goalkeeper and wished him a quick recovery. 

“The entire Gor Mahia family wishes Gad a swift and full recovery,” the statement read

. “He remains in high spirits and is receiving the best medical attention available.”

Mathews’ illness has drawn concern and sympathy from fans and players alike, with many flooding social media platforms to send messages of encouragement. 

Several teammates posted supportive notes, describing him as a “fighter” and “a key pillar in the team’s recent successes.”

Although he missed Friday’s ODM@20 Tournament final, which Gor Mahia went on to win against Bandari FC, celebrations within the camp have remained subdued as the club rallies around their teammate.

Team officials expect Mathews to undergo further tests in Nairobi before a clear diagnosis is established. 

Depending on medical advice, the goalkeeper could be sidelined for several weeks, though the club remains optimistic about a full recovery.