Gor Mahia duo Frank Odhiambo and Ebenezer Asifuah have played down any talk of pressure as they gear up for a crucial Sportpesa league encounter against Tusker FC, maintaining that their focus remains steady despite the tightening title race.
The pair spoke after a training session with the mood in camp appearing calm, even as Gor Mahia saw their lead at the top trimmed following a goalless draw against Kariobangi Sharks.
That result allowed AFC Leopards to close in, cutting the gap to just two points after their 2-0 win against Murang’a SEAL thanks to goals from Ronald Sichenje and Hassan Beja, but for Odhiambo, that is not something worth losing sleep over.
“We are just taking it a game at a time because we don’t want to pile pressure on ourselves,” he said.
Gor Mahia duo play down pressure ahead of Tusker clash on Tuesday
The centre-back, who has grown into a key figure since his return to the club after a stint in Sweden,has brought composure to Gor Mahia’s defensive line.
Whether it is organizing the back four, stepping in with timely interceptions, or initiating build-up play from deep, Odhiambo has offered stability at a time when consistency is everything which saw him earn a call up to the Harambee Stars squad in the last FIFA windows for the FIFA Series that took place in Kigali Rwanda.
He insists the team’s mindset will not change, regardless of what is happening around them.
“We just take the games as they come. We are relaxed and looking forward to each game. If you put pressure on yourself, you will fumble,” he added.
Those words reflect a dressing room that is choosing to block out the noise and stick to a routine that has kept them competitive so far. With seven matches still to play, Gor Mahia know that any slip could shift momentum, but they also understand the importance of staying mentally sharp.
In attack, Ebenezer Asifuah shares the same outlook. The Ghanaian forward believes the team has prepared well enough to handle what Tusker will throw at them.
“We are prepared well to face our opponents. I think it’s going to be an open game, and we are looking forward to getting the three points,” he said.
Tusker’s approach often relies on quick transitions and midfield control, which could make for an open contest, something Asifuah appears ready for. His movement in the final third and ability to hold up play will be important if Gor Mahia are to break down their opponents.
Still, the striker was quick to shift attention away from personal responsibility in front of goal.
“At this moment, I don’t think the pressure is going to be on the strikers. The most important thing is a win. It doesn’t matter who is going to score. The three points are the most important thing.”
It is a message that underlines the collective approach within the squad. Goals can come from anywhere and what matters most is getting over the line.
As the clash at Wang’uru Stadium which is scheduled for Tuesday 14 April with the kick off being 4:15PM(EAT) approaches, Gor Mahia find themselves in a familiar position leading, but being closely chased.
For Odhiambo and Asifuah, however, nothing changes. The job remains the same: stay focused, stay disciplined and deliver when it counts,a win for Kogalo will see them open a five point lead at the summit of the SportPesa League.