‘They Can’t Play Better Than Us’ - Bullish Gor Mahia Coach Hopes Kasarani Turf Will Give Them Edge Over Mathare

Gor Mahia assistant coach Kobi Bismark-Mensah has exuded confidence ahead of their Kenyan Premier League clash against Mathare United, insisting his side has both the experience and the advantage of playing on Kasarani’s lush turf.

The defending champions head into the fixture buoyed by a convincing 3-0 victory over Posta Rangers last weekend, a result that helped them recover from their surprise opening-day defeat. 

Reflecting on that win, Bismark-Mensah said tactical discipline and the timing of their first goal were key.

“When you meet any team that wants to play and give them space, then definitely you’ll be in trouble,” he said.

 “So in the second half we were able to adjust. Players were more committed to tackle and all that, including closing the spaces in the pocket. At the end, we were able to score the first goal. The first goal was the key—it gave us the confidence to come out on top. In the end, it was a good win.”

The Ghanaian tactician, who has been assisting head coach Charles Akonnor, said the team has worked on maintaining consistency as they face a youthful and resurgent Mathare United side.

“Yeah, we’re going to approach it with all seriousness. We believe that proper preparation prevents poor performance,” he noted.

 “In our first game (against Bidco United) we lost, but it wasn’t a poor performance. So we’re going to prepare adequately for Mathare. I even like the way they play, but again, we are playing on a very good turf. I don’t think they can play better than us.”

Gor Mahia will be banking on their experience and squad depth, with key players like Austin Odhiambo, and Alpha Onyango all available for selection.

 Bismark-Mensah believes that the team’s exposure and composure in big matches could make the difference.

“They’re a good side, but we’re also a very good side,” he added. “We have a bit of experience, some of our players have more exposure, and that’s our trump card. I’ve watched them more than five times—they’re good—but we only have to play our best to win.”

Mathare United, who returned to the top flight last  season, have shown flashes of promise but face a daunting task against a Gor Mahia side that has dominated recent encounters—winning five of the last six meetings.

The game will be played at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, where Gor Mahia hope the smooth playing surface will complement their passing game.

“Playing on Kasarani’s turf gives us confidence. It allows us to express our football better,” Bismark-Mensah concluded. “We respect Mathare, but we believe we have what it takes to win.”

Gor Mahia currently sit near the top of the early KPL standings and will look to maintain momentum as they chase a record-extending 22nd league title.