Gor Mahia head coach Charles Akonnor and right-back Paul Ochuoga have been honoured with the SportPesa Football Kenya Federation Premier League (FKFPL) Coach and Player of the Month awards, capping a remarkable period for the record Kenyan champions.
Akonnor was named Coach of the Month, earning KSh 75,000, while Ochuoga walked away with KSh 50,000 after being voted Player of the Month, following a string of commanding performances that underlined Gor Mahia’s resurgence after a difficult start to the season.
Akonnor’s steady hand pays off
The awards come at a time when Gor Mahia’s season narrative has shifted dramatically. After facing criticism in December over inconsistent results and performances, Akonnor has overseen a tactical and psychological turnaround that has restored belief within the squad.
Under his guidance, K’Ogalo have tightened defensively, improved their game management, and rediscovered their trademark intensity. Akonnor’s emphasis on structure, discipline, and player confidence has translated into improved results, pushing Gor Mahia back into contention and silencing doubts about the team’s direction.
Club insiders credit the former Ghana international for remaining calm under pressure and shielding his players from external noise, choosing instead to focus on incremental improvement and consistency.
Ochuoga shines on the right flank
For Paul Ochuoga, the Player of the Month award is recognition of a breakout run that has elevated him into one of the league’s most reliable defenders. The right-back has been instrumental at both ends of the pitch—solid in defense, fearless in tackles, and energetic going forward.
Ochuoga’s performances have been defined by: Defensive discipline against top attackers High work rate and tactical awareness Timely overlaps and quality deliveries into the box
His consistency has made him a key component in Gor Mahia’s improved defensive record, while his confidence on the ball reflects a player growing rapidly in stature.
From criticism to celebration
Beyond the prize money, the awards carry symbolic weight. Just weeks ago, Gor Mahia were the subject of relentless criticism from rival supporters, with social media awash with claims that the club’s dominance was over. The recent recognition of Akonnor and Ochuoga tells a different story—one of patience, resilience, and response.
For the Gor Mahia faithful, the moment is both vindication and motivation. As the season progresses, the challenge now is to sustain momentum and translate individual accolades into silverware.
With Akonnor on the touchline and players like Ochuoga stepping up, K’Ogalo appear firmly back on track, quietly reminding the league that writing off Gor Mahia is often done at one’s own peril.