FKF Premier League record champions Gor Mahia kept their ambitions for a cup double very much alive after a decisive victory over Kariobangi Sharks, propelling them into the semifinals of the Mozzart Bet Cup.
K’Ogalo, determined to reclaim their stature in the Premier League this season, delivered a commanding performance against the 2017 Mozzart Bet Cup champions, triumphing 2-0 at the vibrant Dandora Stadium on Thursday afternoon. This win not only showcased their resilience but also masked some unsettling challenges that had plagued their campaign thus far.
The match began with electric energy, and it was Gor Mahia’s mid-season acquisition, Patrick Essombe, who set the tone in the 16th minute. Seizing on a moment of disarray in the Sharks’ defense, Essombe skillfully slotted the ball past goalkeeper Sebastian Wekesa, marking his first goal for the club since joining from Esportive de Douala in January. The roar from the crowd echoed through the stadium, energizing the players and fans alike.
That goal was pivotal, as it momentarily quelled a fierce wave of pressure from the Sharks—who had been relentless in their pursuit of an early opening goal. The Sharks came out of the blocks with intent, launching attacks that had goalkeeper Gad Matthews on high alert from the very first whistle. William Muluya’s side appeared dangerous, coming close to scoring through Leon Levitt Otieno and Francis Siololo, only to be thwarted by Matthews’ outstanding reflexes.
Essombe could have doubled his tally in the 22nd minute when he found himself in another promising position, but Wekesa displayed quick thinking, getting in the way of his close-range shot. The Sharks managed to hold onto a narrow deficit as they retreated to the changing room for halftime.
In a tactical move, Gor Mahia head coach Sinisa Mihic made four adjustments at the break to invigorate his team. Yet, despite the changes, K’Ogalo found themselves largely defending their lead, managing to threaten Wekesa only with speculative long-range efforts. In contrast, the Sharks continued to search for an equalizer, with substitute Ally Salum providing a moment of excitement that ended in frustration as he misjudged an audacious bicycle kick attempt and later fired wide from a promising position.
Just as the tension began to mount, the final nail in the Sharks’ coffin was driven in with five minutes remaining in regulation time. A well-executed throw-in taken by Ben Stanley Omondi resulted in a perfectly timed cross that met Alpha Onyango’s eager foot, allowing him to slam the ball past Wekesa and secure the victory for Gor Mahia.
What began as a tentative affair quickly evolved into a display of skill and determination as the Green Army found their rhythm. The whistle blew to signal the end of the match, sending Gor Mahia into the semifinals with dreams of lifting the cup still alive!