Gor Mahia head coach, captain emphasize importance of Simba SC clash
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Reading Time: 2min | Wed. 10.09.25. | 13:10
The team traveled to Dar es Salaam on Monday, with players involved in Harambee Stars duties flying out on Tuesday night.
Gor Mahia head coach Charles Kwabla Akonnor and captain Philemon Otieno are fired up ahead of tonight’s game against Simba SC in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, describing the fixture as a key encounter for the club as they prepare for the new season.
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The match, originally scheduled to feature Kenya Police FC, now sees Gor Mahia step in due to Police’s participation in the CECAFA Kagame Cup in Tanzania. The team travelled to Dar es Salaam on Monday, with players involved in Harambee Stars duties flying out on Tuesday night.
Kickoff is set for 19:30, serving as the climax of the annual Simba Day celebrations. While Simba SC will use the game as preparation for their upcoming CAF Champions League campaign, Gor Mahia views it as an important pre-season test ahead of the domestic season, having no continental commitments this year.
Coach Akonnor, who joined the club last month, emphasised the significance of the fixture despite it being a pre-season showdown. “Simba is a big club, and this is an important match for us.
While it is a pre-season encounter and part of our training, it still matters. We are confident and expect a strong performance,” he said.
Captain Philemon Otieno highlighted the warm reception they received in Dar es Salaam and set the team’s sights on victory. “We travelled well, and the reception has been excellent,” Otieno said.
“Simba is one of the top teams in the region, and while we have faced them before, the past is behind us. Our focus is entirely on Wednesday’s game, and we aim to achieve the best result.”
Otieno also stressed the team’s readiness and the importance of representing Gor Mahia well. “We have prepared thoroughly for this match. Gor Mahia has massive support back home, and it is vital we perform to uphold the club’s reputation.
I also encourage Simba fans to turn up in large numbers—it will be a big day for the club.”
For the Gor Mahia captain, the match is more than a friendly. “Simba is strong both regionally and across Africa. For us players, this is a great platform to showcase our quality. A good performance here could even open doors for opportunities beyond Kenya,” he added.
Gor Mahia will officially kick off their FKF Premier League campaign on Sunday, 21 September, when they face Bidco United in their opening match of the new season.
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