Gor Mahia head coach Sinisa Mihic has welcomed the return of striker Benson Omala as his main strikers have struggled to find the net.
Omala, a former Gor Mahia player and last season’s top scorer in the FKF Premier League with 19 goals, played a crucial role in securing the club’s record-extending 21st league title. After the 2023/24 campaign, he sought opportunities abroad, but his overseas venture did not go as planned. Reports indicate that his time in Lebanon ended prematurely due to a strained relationship with the club over unpaid wages, which ultimately led to the termination of his contract, as reported by Pulse Sports.
Now, the Kenyan international has made a much-anticipated return to Gor Mahia, eager to contribute to the club’s title challenge. During a post-match interview following Gor Mahia’s 3-1 victory over Kariobangi Sharks, Mihic expressed enthusiasm about Omala’s comeback.
“Oh, I don’t know him. Right? I saw him only on YouTube and from videos; I know he was a good player, the best striker, which is what we need. Right?” Mihic stated.
Despite admitting his unfamiliarity with Omala, Mihic recognized that the striker’s return significantly bolsters the team’s attacking options, which have lagged in recent matches. “A real striker, yes? Now we are like—I have to be honest—we don’t have a striker that you can say will score ten or fifteen goals,” he added.
Since Omala’s departure, Gor Mahia’s forward line has underperformed. His replacement, Congolese striker Gedeon Bendeka, has failed to impress, while new signing Ugandan forward Charles Bbaale has yet to hit his stride. Consequently, the attacking burden has largely fallen on midfielder Austine Odhiambo.
Odhiambo’s absence due to injury caused Gor Mahia to struggle for goals, but his recent return has made an impact, as evidenced by his brace in the 3-1 win over Kariobangi Sharks at Dandora Stadium.
Currently, Gor Mahia is engaged in a thrilling title race against Kenya Police and Tusker FC. With the potential return of Omala, they may gain the edge needed to reclaim the top spot. Police lead the standings with 42 points, followed closely by Tusker with 41 points, while Gor Mahia sits third with 39 points but has a game in hand over both rivals.
News but Pulse Sports