Gor Mahia went on a rampage at Nyayo National Stadium, storming into a commanding 3–0 halftime lead against Sofapaka with a ruthless, well-orchestrated first half.
Frank Odhiambo opened the scoring just 14 minutes into the contest before Sylvester Owino doubled the advantage five minutes later. Ebenezer Adukwaw then capped a dominant half by calmly converting a 31st-minute penalty to put K’Ogalo firmly in control.
In the opening 45 minutes alone, Gor Mahia registered five shots on target, earned one corner, and enjoyed 54% possession, all while maintaining a disciplined display with no bookings.
How the goals came
The opener was classic Gor Mahia pressure. From a long throw by Enock Morrison, Odhiambo timed his movement perfectly before guiding a looping header deep into the right corner, beyond the Sofapaka goalkeeper’s reach.
The second goal followed a similar script. A high delivery from the left found Sylvester Owino, who rose unchallenged and planted his header into almost the exact same spot as the first, precise, composed, and devastating.
The third came from the spot after Musa Shariff was brought down inside the box. Adukwaw showed no nerves, drilling a low effort to the goalkeeper’s left to make it three before the break.
There was an early setback for Gor Mahia in the 31st minute when Patrick Essombe was forced off through injury, with Ebenezer Assifuah coming on in his place.
Second-half control
With a three-goal cushion, the second half was all about game management. K’Ogalo slowed the tempo, controlled possession, and showcased their tactical maturity, crisp passing, intelligent movement, and total command of the rhythm at the iconic Nyayo National Stadium.
A moment to remember
The loudest roar of the afternoon arrived in the 83rd minute.
The long-awaited moment finally came as Lewis Bandi made his long-anticipated league debut, replacing Ochuoga, while Fidel Origa came on as Dwang’ made way. Having been sidelined by injury since signing in August, Bandi’s introduction sent the stadium into rapture.
“And ladies and gentlemen, we have a substitution, and guess who? Lewis Bandi makes his league debut in green!”
The stands erupted as chants rang through Nyayo, with Taya Dok leading the main stand in full voice.
What a moment. What a game. What a blessing, K’Ogalo Nyamriri.