Interim Gor Mahia coach Zedekiah ‘Zico’ Otieno faces mounting pressure as fans call for change following a series of poor results.
Gor Mahia, one of Kenya’s most decorated football clubs, finds itself under immense pressure as it prepares to face struggling Ulinzi Stars in a rescheduled Football Kenya Federation Premier League (FKFPL) fixture. The match is set to kick off at 4 PM on Wednesday at the Kenyatta Stadium in Machakos. Earlier in the day, Kenya Police will take on FC Talanta at the same venue, aiming to extend their impressive run under new coach Etienne Ndayiragije.
Gor Mahia’s Struggles Under Zedekiah ‘Zico’ Otieno
Acting Gor Mahia coach Zedekiah ‘Zico’ Otieno has faced sharp criticism from fans following a string of underwhelming performances. The team has failed to secure a win in their last three matches, slipping to an uncharacteristic eighth position on the FKFPL table with 18 points from 12 matches. Their recent results include a 1-0 defeat to Kenya Police in Murang’a, another 1-0 loss to Bidco United, and a 1-1 draw against Shabana.
Zico, who took over on November 13 after the sacking of Brazilian coach Leonardo Neiva, has overseen six matches, recording three wins, two losses, and a draw. Gor Mahia’s last victory came on December 3 in a narrow 3-2 triumph over FC Talanta. The club’s leadership has called for patience, with Secretary General Sam Ochola urging fans to avoid acts of violence and hooliganism.
“We can only have a new coach next year. Applications are under review, and we urge fans to be patient with Zico,” Ochola said, addressing rising tensions among supporters.
Ulinzi Stars’ Battle for Survival
On the other side, Ulinzi Stars are also navigating a challenging season. The military outfit sits second from the bottom of the FKFPL standings with just 13 points from 13 matches. Despite their struggles, Ulinzi has shown flashes of resilience, managing victories against AFC Leopards and Posta Rangers this season.
Under coach Dunston Nyaudo, Ulinzi has recorded two wins, four draws, and two losses in their last six matches. However, they face a daunting task against Gor Mahia, whom they haven’t defeated since November 2021. A positive result against K’Ogalo could be a turning point for Ulinzi in their fight to escape the relegation zone.
Resurgent Kenya Police Target FC Talanta
Earlier in the day, Kenya Police will look to maintain their momentum when they clash with FC Talanta at 1 PM. Since Ndayiragije’s appointment in late November, Kenya Police have transformed their fortunes, climbing from the bottom of the table to fourth place with 20 points from 12 matches. The team has secured crucial victories over Nairobi City Stars, Mara Sugar, and Bidco United during this resurgence.
Matchday! What are your predictions?#FKFPremierLeague pic.twitter.com/Bwk8Xl7Cnz
— FKF Premier League (@Officialfkfpl) December 18, 2024
A win against FC Talanta could propel Kenya Police to third place, surpassing Bandari and positioning themselves just behind joint league leaders KCB and Tusker. Ndayiragije has credited the team’s improved discipline and tactical adjustments for their recent success.
“We are taking it one match at a time, focusing on solidifying our position and continuing this positive trajectory,” the coach stated in a pre-match briefing.
FC Talanta’s Fight for Survival
FC Talanta faces an uphill battle as they aim to avoid relegation. The team sits near the bottom of the table and has struggled to find consistency this season. However, they will be buoyed by the return of head coach Jackline Juma, who missed their previous match due to suspension.
Talanta has managed just one victory over Kenya Police in their last five encounters, but the relegation-threatened side will be eager to pull off an upset and secure vital points in their fight for survival.
The Stakes Are High
Both matches carry significant implications for the teams involved. For Gor Mahia, a win against Ulinzi Stars is crucial to restoring confidence among fans and re-establishing their status as title contenders. Ulinzi, on the other hand, will be desperate to break their winless streak against Gor Mahia and climb out of the relegation zone.
League Standings after 14 Rounds
Unaona Timu yako?#FKFPremierLeague pic.twitter.com/Hup6yaII8B
— FKF Premier League (@Officialfkfpl) December 15, 2024
Meanwhile, Kenya Police will aim to capitalize on their impressive form and continue their climb up the table, while FC Talanta will view the match as an opportunity to turn their season around and improve their chances of staying in the league.
With the league’s competitive nature, every point counts, and fans can expect intense battles at the Kenyatta Stadium on Wednesday.
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