Gor Mahia might have to make do without the services of Austin Odhiambo ahead of the upcoming Mashemeji Derby
Gor Mahia midfielder Austin Odhiambo might be forced to sit out their upcoming Mashemeji Derby clash against AFC Leopards, set to take place at the Nyayo National Stadium on Sunday afternoon.
Odhiambo suffered an unfortunate setback during their clash against Bandari, where K’ogalo secured a comfortable 2-0 victory.
Speaking during a press conference at Nyayo Stadium on Friday, Gor Mahia head coach Sinisa Mihic provided an update on Odhiambo’s condition, raising concerns over his availability for the crucial derby.
“I cannot say much about Austin. We will see. He just came back from his recovery phase. He got injured when he won the penalty against Bandari and felt pain in his leg from the tackle he received,” Mihic told the media.
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Odhiambo, who began his professional career with AFC Leopards before joining Gor Mahia, has become a pivotal figure in their midfield.
His vision, creativity, and goal-scoring ability have set him apart in the Kenyan Premier League. In the 2023–24 season, his exceptional performances played a key role in leading Gor Mahia to their 21st league title.
He emerged as the highest-scoring midfielder, netting 12 goals and providing 13 assists. His contributions were recognized when he was named the Most Valuable Player (MVP) at the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Gala on July 26, 2024.
Meanwhile, Mihic also provided an update on striker Benson Omala, who has yet to feature for the club since rejoining on deadline day, pending clearance by the FIFA player status committee.
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“He is training with us, but we are still waiting for the paperwork to be completed,” Mihic explained.
Mihic, who previously expressed frustration over his forwards' inconsistency in front of goal, hopes to have Omala available soon.
The coach believes Omala’s presence could help the club achieve its objectives while also boosting his chances of making the squad for the African Nations Championship (CHAN) in August.
“That is not for me to answer. I am not sure about the rules, and the transfer window was closed. He joined us as an ex-player. We want to help him get fit, and I would love to have him in my team, but we do not have a choice right now.”
Despite the potential absence of Odhiambo and the uncertainty surrounding Omala, Mihic remains confident in his side’s chances of securing a positive result against AFC Leopards.
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“It is a big game and a big derby, so it will be something new for me, but I am focused on my team. Every game, we want to win and be champions, and this is our main target.
“I am not sure about the other team. I am sure they want to win, but we are the favorites given the previous record, and we have a 70 percent chance of being victorious.”
With Gor Mahia aiming to extend their dominance in Kenyan football, the Mashemeji Derby promises to be a thrilling encounter despite the injury concerns and squad uncertainties.