Gor Mahia’s head coach, Sinisa Mihic, is facing mounting pressure to fix his team’s offensive struggles, and he believes that striker Benson Omala could be the key to solving their goal-scoring crisis.
With Omala yet to feature for the team since his return in the mid-season transfer window, Mihic’s frustrations are evident, especially following their disappointing 0-0 draw against AFC Leopards in the Mashemeji Derby.
Gor Mahia’s attacking woes are glaring, and it’s clear that the team needs a player with the instincts and ability to convert chances into goals.
Omala’s Absence Leaving a Gap in Gor Mahia’s Attack
Since the departure of Benson Omala, Gor Mahia has struggled to find a reliable goal scorer.
The team’s offensive issues have been compounded by missed chances in recent matches, especially the Mashemeji Derby, where both teams failed to capitalize on clear-cut opportunities.
Mihic has openly admitted that the team’s inability to score goals is a serious problem that needs to be addressed immediately.
“Benson Omala is exactly the type of player we need right now,” Mihic remarked after the goalless draw against AFC Leopards. “A player who can easily convert chances into goals. Right now, we don’t have that presence in the box. That is our biggest issue, and it’s beyond my control.”
The Croatian tactician’s sentiments reflect the frustration felt by the Gor Mahia faithful, who are desperate for a solution to the club’s lack of firepower. For a team that has historically been dominant in Kenyan football, these goal-scoring challenges have been uncharacteristic.
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The Missing Link: Benson Omala’s Scoring Instincts
Benson Omala’s return to Gor Mahia during the mid-season transfer window had fans and officials excited. Known for his clinical finishing ability, Omala has proven himself as a goal-scoring machine in the past.
However, his participation has been marred by an ongoing dispute with his former club, Lebanese Premier League side Safa SC. This has left Omala sidelined, and Mihic is feeling the absence of the striker in the team’s offensive lineup.
“Omala’s presence would have made a huge difference in the derby. He has the natural ability to find the back of the net, and that’s something we desperately need,” Mihic added.
Omala rejoined Gor Mahia in what many saw as a major boost to the team’s attack. However, his situation remains unresolved as he is still caught in a legal dispute with Safa SC, which has affected his registration with Gor Mahia. According to Gor Mahia CEO Raymond Oruo, the matter is now in the hands of FIFA’s Player Status Committee.
“We are still waiting for FIFA’s clearance on this matter,” Oruo explained. “Unfortunately, Omala will miss the derby because his case is still under review.”
Omala’s transfer to Lebanon was orchestrated by former Harambee Stars head coach Engin Firat, who played a significant role in facilitating the striker’s move. While the transfer was initially seen as an opportunity for Omala to elevate his career on the international stage, it has since turned into a tangled legal issue. Despite the complications, Omala’s father, Peter Oluoch, has expressed optimism about his son’s future.
“This is his third day in Lebanon, and I am happy that he has finally achieved his dream of playing professional football outside Kenya,” Oluoch told the Daily Nation. “His move to Lebanon, though not without its challenges, could be vital for his career growth and financial stability.”
While there are concerns about security in Lebanon, Oluoch is hopeful that the experience will be beneficial for Omala’s development as a professional footballer. The striker’s father is confident that his son’s return to Gor Mahia will be just a matter of time, as the legal dispute gets resolved.
In the meantime, Gor Mahia will have to continue their campaign without Omala. The team’s upcoming match against KCB FC will be another crucial test for Mihic and his players. The absence of Omala leaves Gor Mahia’s attack weakened, and their ability to challenge for the top positions in the league could be compromised if the scoring issues aren’t addressed quickly.
Gor Mahia’s attacking lineup currently lacks a true goal-scoring striker who can provide the team with consistent results. While players like George “Blackberry” Odhiambo and John “Ninja” Ndirangu have shown flashes of brilliance, none have been able to consistently deliver the goals required to push the team to victory.
The team’s failure to secure a win against AFC Leopards highlights the importance of having a player like Omala in the squad. His ability to finish chances and provide that extra spark in front of goal could be the difference between winning and losing crucial matches.
