Gor Mahia overcame a spirited fightback from Shabana FC to secure their place in the ODM@20 Tournament final, winning in a tense penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw in regulation time at Mbaraki Sports Club.
The Green Army took the lead late in the first half through Samuel Kapen, who capitalized on a loose clearance inside the area after Patrice Esombe’s low cross was deflected into his path. The former Nairobi City Stars forward made no mistake, striking low past goalkeeper Caleb Omondi to give K’Ogalo a well-deserved advantage at the break.
Shabana emerged from halftime with renewed purpose and intensity. Their persistence paid off when new signing Henry Obinno equalized early in the second half, finishing off a well-executed move that momentarily exposed Gor Mahia’s backline.
The match continued at a frantic pace, with both sides creating opportunities in search of a winner. Shabana’s Erick Otieno and Wycliffe Omondi came close on several occasions, while Gor’s Felix Oluoch and Lawrence Juma tested the Shabana goalkeeper but could not convert their chances.
With neither side able to find the decisive goal in regulation time, the contest proceeded to post-match penalties. Gor Mahia held their nerve to triumph 4-3 in the shootout, securing their spot in Friday’s grand final.
Bandari FC, who earlier edged AFC Leopards in the first semifinal, will await Gor Mahia in what promises to be a thrilling finale on Friday, October 10. Shabana will face Leopards in the third-place playoff scheduled for noon, followed by the final, which kicks off at 2:00 PM.
The overall winner of the tournament will face the ODM Combined XI (Chungwa FC) in a special exhibition match that will conclude the celebrations. The champions will walk away with Ksh 1 million, the runners-up will receive Ksh 750,000, third place will earn Ksh 500,000, and fourth place will receive Ksh 250,000.
