Gor Mahia’s hopes of reclaiming the FKF Premier League title suffered a major setback after the club announced the dismissal of head coach Sinisa Mihic following Sunday’s goalless draw against Murang’a Seal at SportPesa Arena. The result saw the 20-time champions fall seven points behind league leaders Kenya Police FC, prompting a swift decision from the club hierarchy as the title race nears its climax.
Gor Mahia Axe Mihic After Disappointing Spell
The decision to part ways with Mihic was confirmed through a statement released on the club’s social media platforms late Monday evening. “We have parted ways with head coach Sinisa Mihic by mutual agreement. Assistant coaches Zedekiah ‘Zico’ Otieno and Michael Naam will take over on an interim basis. We thank Coach Mihic for his service and wish him all the best in his future endeavors,” read the club’s official post.
This marks the second managerial change for Gor Mahia in the 2024/25 season. Mihic, a UEFA Pro License holder, was appointed in November 2024 following the dismissal of Brazilian tactician Leonardo Neiva. Expectations were high after the mid-season appointment, but inconsistency in results and lack of attacking fluidity saw pressure mount on the Serbian coach.
Title Slipping Away from K’Ogalo
Mihic leaves Gor Mahia placed third in the FKF Premier League table with 59 points, trailing Kenya Police FC by seven, although the Green Army have a game in hand against fierce rivals AFC Leopards. That fixture, the rescheduled Mashemeji Derby, could either revive Gor’s hopes or cement their fate in what has become one of the tightest title races in recent memory.
The 0-0 draw with Murang’a Seal on Sunday was the final straw. Gor Mahia created few clear chances and lacked the urgency expected from title challengers. Fans at the stadium voiced their frustration throughout the match, and the club’s top brass wasted little time in reacting.
Kenya Police open a 6⃣ point gap as Kakamega Homeboyz skip to 4th.
Full table https://t.co/lJpDzPCGLv#FKFPL pic.twitter.com/7FRiuI0bJz
— FKF Premier League (@Officialfkfpl) May 20, 2025
Zico and Naam Tasked with Critical Run-In
With only three league fixtures remaining, the responsibility now falls to assistant coaches Zedekiah ‘Zico’ Otieno and Michael Naam. The duo will guide the club through season-defining matches against AFC Leopards, Ulinzi Stars, and current table-toppers Kenya Police FC. Additionally, Gor Mahia remain in contention for the Mozzart Bet Cup and are set to face Murang’a Seal once again in the semi-finals—a rematch that now carries added narrative.
Zico, a former Gor Mahia player and experienced tactician, is no stranger to pressure. He has previously stepped in as caretaker and understands the club’s culture and expectations. Naam, known for his technical acumen, will play a vital supporting role as the duo attempt to steady the ship.
| ANNOUNCEMENT
We have parted ways with head coach Sinisa Mihic on mutual agreement; the two assistants to take charge on interim basis.
We wish Mihic all the best in his endeavours. #Sirkal | #SportPesaNaGor pic.twitter.com/C76ymja5pU
— GOR MAHIA FC (@OfficialGMFC) May 19, 2025
Mihic’s Record in Numbers
During his five-month tenure, Mihic oversaw 16 matches across all competitions. Under his guidance, Gor Mahia secured nine wins, including six in the league and three in the Mozzart Bet Cup. However, his inability to string together results in big matches and a failure to close the gap on Kenya Police FC ultimately sealed his fate.
While there were flashes of brilliance—such as victories over Kariobangi Sharks and Bandari—the team struggled with inconsistency. The lack of a reliable goalscorer and defensive lapses in critical fixtures left Gor Mahia trailing in a title race they were expected to dominate.
Pressure From Rivals and Fans
Gor Mahia’s supporters, known for their passion and high expectations, have not been pleased with the team’s recent performances. The goalless stalemate against Murang’a Seal triggered widespread criticism on social media, with many calling for a change in the technical bench.
Meanwhile, Kenya Police FC extended their lead at the summit with a narrow 1-0 victory over FC Talanta in Machakos on the same matchday. With 66 points and only two matches remaining, the Law Enforcers are firm favorites to lift their maiden title.
Tusker, another contender, were humiliated 7-1 by Sofapaka—a result that effectively knocked them out of the title picture. That heavy defeat left the door open for Gor Mahia to capitalize, but the draw against Murang’a Seal felt like a missed opportunity.
Mashemeji Derby Carries More Than Just Bragging Rights
Gor Mahia’s remaining fixtures are not just about chasing points—they’re loaded with history and pressure. The upcoming Mashemeji Derby against AFC Leopards could determine the fate of their title challenge. Beyond the bragging rights, the stakes have never been higher.
The four-time league winners Ulinzi Stars and the table-toppers Police FC will also test Gor Mahia’s mettle. Winning all three remaining matches is a must, but even that may not be enough if Police avoid defeat in their last two games.
Silverware Still in Sight with Mozzart Bet Cup
Despite league woes, Gor Mahia remain in contention for domestic silverware via the Mozzart Bet Cup. Their upcoming semi-final against Murang’a Seal is a chance to book a final berth and salvage the season with a trophy that could secure continental football next season.
With Mihic gone and pressure at an all-time high, the stage is set for Zico and Naam to inspire one final push from a squad still brimming with talent but in need of confidence. Whether the duo can guide Gor Mahia to glory remains to be seen—but the mission is clear: deliver or watch the season fade into disappointment.
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