- Gor Mahia head coach Charles Akonnor has credited his SportPesa League Coach of the Month award for October to the team’s outstanding collective effort.
- Akonnor received a custom-made SportPesa League Coach of the Month trophy along with KSh 75,000, courtesy of the leading online gaming company SportPesa.
- The Ghanaian tactician steered Gor Mahia to three consecutive victories in October: against KCB, Posta Rangers, and Mathare United.
Gor Mahia head coach Charles Akonnor has credited his SportPesa League Coach of the Month honour for October to the team’s remarkable collective effort.
The Ghanaian international was announced as the winner on Friday, November 21, at the Kasarani Annex, becoming the first coach to receive this newly introduced accolade from SportPesa, the leading online gaming firm and main sponsor of the SportPesa League.
In his debut season with the record Kenyan champions, Akonnor received a customized SportPesa League Coach of the Month trophy and KSh 75,000 for emerging top after facing competition from three other contenders: Charles Okere of Tusker, Patrick Odhiambo of Kakamega Homeboyz, and Fred Ambani of AFC Leopards.
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Gor Mahia head coach Charles Akonnor reacts after winning SportPesa League Coach of the Month for October
Speaking to the press after the announcement, the former Black Stars head coach first took a moment to thank the Gor Mahia fans for their steadfast support this season.
He also credited divine grace for the team’s ability to bounce back after losing their first match- a result that had initially cast some doubt on his leadership.
I thank God for this opportunity. Three or four months ago when I took over, nothing was certain about what was expected of me. I lost my first match, but by God’s grace we recovered quickly, returned to winning ways, and won the rest of our matches.
This award also goes to our fans, who always fill the stadiums. They come in large numbers, and their support keeps growing. I’m truly grateful.”
Akonnor also extended his gratitude to his technical team and the club management, led by Chairperson Ambrose Rachier, for their unwavering support.
I also want to thank my technical team. They have been deeply strategic in planning for each match, analyzing different formations and opponents. My appreciation goes to them. We have collaborated effectively, and I congratulate them and the entire staff.
The credit also goes to the match stewards and the club management under Mr. Ambrose Rachier. They have been incredibly supportive of all our activities, consistently delivering on our requests. It has been a wonderful partnership.”
Gor Mahia head coach Charles Akonnor commends players for embracing his philosophy
The 51-year-old did not forget to praise his players, acknowledging that it wasn’t easy for them to adapt to his methods, but he takes great pride in how well they have responded.
But most importantly, I thank the players. We have pushed them since preseason, introducing ideas they weren’t used to. Yet they adjusted brilliantly, and everything we taught them has been executed on the pitch. I may have received this honour, but it represents the dedication of many people behind the scenes.”
Akonnor guided Gor Mahia to victory in all three of their October matches against KCB, Posta Rangers, and Mathare United in his first season as head coach.
The 21-time top-flight champions maintained a perfect record for the month, beginning with a 0-1 away win against KCB at Dandora Stadium, followed by a 3-0 victory over Posta Rangers at Nyayo Stadium, and concluding with a 2-0 win against Mathare United at the Moi International Sports Centre in Kasarani.
