Africa-Press – Kenya. The Sportpesa Premier League title race explodes into another high-voltage weekend with leaders Gor Mahia and second-placed AFC Leopards resuming their relentless hunt for crucial points that could shift the balance of power at the summit of the log.
The two sworn enemies are locked together on 33 points, separated only by goal difference.
Gor Mahia’s advantage is razor-thin, and with both giants confronting difficult opponents, supremacy will be earned — or lost — in moments of pressure.
First up are Gor Mahia, who stride into Moi Stadium, Kasarani on Saturday afternoon for a 4:00pm showdown against stubborn Bidco United — the very side that shocked them 1-0 on the opening day of the season. That defeat still stings, and K’Ogalo now have a chance to strike back with the title race on the line.
Head coach Charles Akonnor insists this Gor Mahia side is tougher, sharper and wiser than the one Bidco caught cold in August.
“We are not the same team we were at the beginning of the season,” Akonnor said. “The understanding among the players is much better now and our organisation has improved.”
But Akonnor has warned his squad not to let emotion cloud judgment. “This is not about revenge,” he stressed.
“If you allow feelings to control you, you lose discipline, and discipline wins matches.”
The Ghanaian tactician knows Bidco’s threat all too well. “They are very organised and patient,” Akonnor said.
“They wait for mistakes, and if you give them one, they punish you.” With goal difference currently keeping Gor above AFC Leopards, he admitted margins matter. “At this stage, everything counts,” he said.
“But first we must control the game and earn the win.” His message was clear and defiant: “At Kasarani, we must show authority.”
Gor Mahia have been handed a major lift with the return of hard-tackling defender Frank Odhiambo, back from Swedish side Djurgårdens IF. They also welcome the return of CHAN 2024 sensation Lewis Bandi, who has shaken off a long spell of injury.
Bidco United, however, arrive with zero fear and quiet belief. Head coach Anthony Akhulia has dismissed any suggestion that their opening-day win was a fluke.
“That result was not an accident,” Akhulia said bluntly. “We earned it because we followed our plan.”
Akhulia knows exactly what awaits his team. “When you play Gor Mahia, concentration must be total,” he said.
“One second of switching off and the match is gone.” Still, he refuses to bow to reputation. “Big names don’t play football,” he added. “Players do.” His warning to Gor was subtle but sharp: “We respect them, but respect does not mean fear.”
Twenty-four hours later, the spotlight swings to AFC Leopards, who take centre stage on Sunday evening with a 4:00pm clash against Sofapaka at the same venue. Ingwe know that victory could send them top of the table — or pile pressure on Gor Mahia, depending on Saturday’s outcome.
AFC Leopards head coach Fred Ambani has demanded focus, calm and steel from his players. “We have prepared very well for this match,” Ambani said. “The players understand what is at stake, but we must stay disciplined.”
Ambani has warned against complacency. “Sofapaka are a very technical team with experienced players,” he said.
“If you underestimate them, they will punish you.” Playing at Kasarani, he insists, is no guarantee. “Home advantage gives us energy, but it also brings responsibility,” Ambani noted. “Our fans expect effort and commitment.”
The Leopards coach highlighted the mental edge required in such games. “These matches are decided by small details and concentration,” he said. “You must stay calm even when the pressure is high.” With the title in sight, Ambani did not hide his ambition. “We want to finish the season strongly,” he said. “This match is a big step.”
Ingwe will look to the creativity and vision of midfielder Tyson Otieno to unlock Sofapaka’s defence and provide the incisive service their strikers need to find the net.
Otieno, elder brother of Harambee Stars midfield stalwart Austin Odhiambo, has been pivotal to Ingwe’s impressive surge this season, dictating play and linking defence to attack.
Sofapaka head coach Ezekiel Akwana, meanwhile, is relishing the challenge of spoiling the party.
“Playing AFC Leopards is never easy,” Akwana admitted. “The atmosphere alone can test you.” But he struck a confident tone. “We have prepared well and the players are mentally ready,” he said.
Akwana made his intentions clear. “We are not going to Nairobi just to participate,” he declared. “We are going there to compete and get a positive result.”
Discipline will be key, he added. “Our organisation and shape must be right for the entire match.” His final message carried belief: “If we execute our plan, we can hurt them.”
Elsewhere, Round 18 is packed with intrigue. On Saturday at 2:00pm, APS Bomet host Shabana at Green Stadium in Kericho, Mara Sugar welcome Kenya Police to Green Stadium in Awendo, Bandari face Kariobangi Sharks at the KPA Sports Club in Mombasa, and Posta Rangers meet Mathare United at Kasarani Annex.
Sunday’s earlier fixtures see KCB take on Tusker at Kasarani Annex at 3:00pm, while Ulinzi Stars host Murang’a Seal at the Ulinzi Sports Complex.
One weekend. Two giants. No breathing space.
In a title race this tight, one mistake could tip the balance — and neither Gor Mahia nor AFC Leopards can afford to blink.
