Gor Mahia can reclaim top spot in the SportPesa Premier League on Wednesday if they can muster a win against Murang’a Seal at the Kasarani Stadium.
The record Kenyan league winners are currently in second place with 27 points, after they were held to a barren draw by Shabana over the weekend. Despite the frustrating point, Gor remain favorites with two games in hand.
The draw saw them surrender top spot to their eternal rivals AFC Leopards, who are aiming to win their first league title since 1998.
They host a Murang’a Seal side who currently boast the longest unbeaten run in the SportPesa League. Murang’a are now 10 games without defeat, winning their last three games.
Murang’a were 2-0 winners against Mathare United on Saturday courtesy of goals in either half from Victor Haki and Jackson Imbiakha. The win kept their unbeaten record against the slum boys intact, winning two of three such matches.
Head coach Osborne Monday seems to have settled well into his role, lifting Murang’a from the relegation zone into a respectable ninth place with 21 points. Victory here could lift them into the top five for the first time this season.
The last time these sides met was in the Cup last year and it had to be settled on penalties after a 2-2 stalemate at full time. Gor eventually came out 5-4 winners in the shootout.
The new breath of life into the Murang’a outfit has brought a new sense of belief in the stands, which is a direct result of good football from the rather young side. Murang’a remain confident they can avoid defeat here to stretch their unbeaten run.
Murang’a have also been resolute at the back, conceding just two goals in their last five matches. However, Gor have kept the most clean sheets this season, setting this up to potentially be a cagey affair.
Our team has a look at both sides ahead of the highly anticipated clash, offering our predicted outcome.
Wha time does the game start?
The match kicks off at 4PM E.A.T
Gor Mahia vs Murang’a Seal team news
There were four different goal scorers in Gor’s 4-1 win at Kariobangi Sharks, with all set to start here as well.
Felix Oluoch is the home side’s top scorer this season and will retain his starting role, as well as Ebenezer Adukwaw in the final third.
Samuel Kapen was on target as well but may have to settle for a place on the bench here.
There are no changes expected from the Murang’a side who beat Mathare.
Top scorer and fan favorite Joe Waithira has been inspirational for Murang’a and his presence in midfield is key for the visitors.
The experience of John Kiplagat is also important and the veteran forward will start here.
Gor Mahia vs Murang’a Seal head-to-head and current form
Gor have only beaten Murang’a once in 90 minutes, winning the other fixture on penalties. Three of the last five matches between these two sides has resulted in a draw.
The 1-0 defeat to Leopards is Gor’s only loss in their last five matches.
Current form
Gor Mahia – DWWDL
Murang’a – WWWDD
Gor Mahia vs Murang’a Seal prediction
With home advantage, Charles Akonnor’s side are favorites to win here. However, Murang’a’s run of form should not be overlooked, especially against opponents they can usually contain.
Goals are not a regular feature in this fixture and the same can expected here.
Prediction – Gor Mahia to win or draw (1X)
