Harambee Stars Goalkeeper Byrne Omondi Shares Secret to Strong Start at Gor Mahia

Harambee Stars and Gor Mahia goalkeeper Byrne Omondi has reflected on his impressive start to life at the 21-time Kenyan champions, crediting hard work, faith, and fierce competition within the squad for his rapid rise.

Since joining Gor Mahia from Bandari FC after the 2024 African Nations Championships (CHAN), Omondi has been instrumental in the club’s solid defensive record, forming a formidable partnership with defenders Sylvester Owino and Mike Kibwage that has propelled K’Ogalo to the summit of the FKF Premier League table.

Speaking about the atmosphere in the national team ahead of Kenya’s World Cup qualifiers this November,  Omondi highlighted the importance of unity, especially in integrating new players such as Kevin Otiende (Nairobi United), Bryton Onyona (Gor Mahia), and returning Shariff Musa (Gor Mahia).

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“The mood in the camp is fantastic. There are new members in the team, so we are taking it upon ourselves to welcome them because it is a fantastic opportunity for them to show their worth.”

Omondi, who made his senior debut for Kenya against Pakistan in June 2023, says representing the country remains one of his proudest achievements.

“It was a dream to play for the national team. I had to work hard and pray a lot to represent my country, and now I enjoy it every day.”

On his move to Gor Mahia, the former Bandari shot-stopper admitted that the expectations and competition have helped him improve significantly.

“Moving to Gor was a huge task. It is a big team and you are expected to win every game. You have to perform, and the competition from Gad and Sa has also pushed me to different heights.”

Looking ahead to the upcoming friendly matches against Equatorial Guinea and Senegal in Turkey, Omondi acknowledged the tough challenge but welcomed the experience as vital preparation for future continental ambitions.

“It is a huge challenge playing against the likes of Senegal. They are a big team in Africa and the World, so playing them helps a lot when preparing for the upcoming 2027 AFCON.”

With Omondi’s consistent performances for both club and country, Kenya appears to have found a dependable last line of defense — one combining humility, focus, and growing leadership.