Six years ago, on a sunny Sunday, February 3rd, 2019, at exactly 16:00, Gor Mahia faced a pivotal game in the CAF Confederation Cup group stage. This match held significant importance in regaining confidence for qualifying for the quarters, a goal that slipped away the previous year after elimination by Ryon Sports from Rwanda.
Leading the team that day was Jaques Tuyisenge, who had exuded confidence during the pre-match conference the day before. His words, ‘Nina hakika hii game tutashinda’ (I am sure we will win this game), resonated with me in the conference room , almost igniting celebrations prematurely. The enthusiasm even caught the attention of FKF CEO Barry Otieno, who humorously ‘yellow carded’ me for the excitement.
Under the guidance of head coach Hassan Oktay, the team underwent intense training the day before the game. Oktay’s instructions, particularly emphasizing a 45° angle pass instead of direct shots near the opponent’s corner line, set the tone for the strategic preparations.
As customary, the home team trained in the morning before the match, while the visitors, the Egyptian giants Zamalek, had their session in the evening, showcasing their renowned skills and techniques.
On match day, tension gripped K’Ogalo followers, but as the dedicated media representative for Mayienga, I held firm to Captain JaUsenge’s earlier assurance, standing as the unwavering voice of belief amidst the palpable anticipation.
In a thrilling match at the 1987 Kasarani Sports Center, a game like never before unfolded as the visitors took the lead in the 7th minute through their star player, Hassan, casting a hush over Kasarani akin to the anticipation of a ‘nyawawa’ eruption.
However, the resilient K’Ogalo team refused to succumb early on. Eighteen minutes later, JaUsenge’s goal ignited the stadium with unprecedented cheers and drumming, shifting the momentum in favor of K’Ogalo. The entertainment combined with strategic play left the visitors bewildered, evoking memories of the 1984 war in Alexandria.
As pressure mounted on the visitors, the anticipation of another goal grew palpable. Observing the game closely, I signaled to fellow photographer Vincent Ooro that another goal was imminent. True to the prediction, Tuyisenge, with an Omooond assist, scored a crucial goal in the 38th minute.
With Gor Mahono asserting dominance under the spell of Kanyamwa, the atmosphere at the stadium pulsated with excitement, reminiscent of Ogusu Jabul’s drumming akin to Mmam, the drum beater in Elechi Amadi’s novel “The Concubine.”
Zamalek managed to level the score in the 44th minute through Hassan, displaying resilience. Despite this setback, fans remained vocal, ready to witness an intense second half akin to a battle between David and Goliath, fueling the anticipation for the rest of the match.
In a thrilling second half, Kipkirui demonstrated his talent by scoring a crucial goal, showcasing his connection to Kipchoge. JaUsenge’s precise cross set up the opportunity, leading to a remarkable header by the Kericho native that left Zamalek’s goalkeeper scrambling. The stadium erupted with excitement, reminiscent of Lake Victoria being relocated to Mount Kenya, as the ball found the back of the net, making it 3-2 with no room for reversal.
The anticipation peaked as fans of K’Ogalo awaited the return of the iconic Dennis Oliech, a legendary figure in Kenyan football. Oliech, having retired after a successful career both in Europe, made a grand entrance in the 67th minute, replacing Kipkirui. Tuyisenge graciously passed on the captain’s armband to the revered Oliech, honoring his immense contribution to Kenyan football.
True to his promise, the stadium erupted once more in the 90th minute when Oliech, through a strategic move, outwitted the Zamalek defense and secured the 4th amd ultimate assurance winning goal, sparking jubilation among supporters. In a touching tribute to his late brother, Oliech recreated a celebratory gesture, bridging the past with the present in a moment of deep emotional significance.
Kenyan football basked in nostalgia and brilliance as Dennis Oliech left an indelible mark on the game.
This historic day will forever be etched in the annals of our footballing history.
