Gor Mahia’s Austin Odhiambo reveals how Musa Masika’s arrival has impacted his game

Gor Mahia's Austin Odhiambo is enjoying a new partnership with Musa Masika in the FKF Premier League.

Masika, the younger brother of Ayub Timbe, joined Gor Mahia from KCB. He had previously played a pivotal role in Wazito FC's promotion to the top-flight in 2019.

Gor Mahia combination

The attacker had represented the national junior team and made his senior debut for Harambee Stars in a CHAN match against Tanzania last year.

Odhiambo spoke with Gor Mahia TV about the positive impact of having Masika on the team, noting that it has made it more difficult for opponents to single him out for man-marking.

"It's easier for me when there are multiple creative and dangerous players on the field. It becomes difficult for opponents to man-mark you," Odhiambo said in the interview.

Masika echoed these sentiments, expressing his comfort in playing alongside Odhiambo and Alpha Onyango, both of whom he had previously played with on the national team.

"Austine and Alpha are players I know well from the national setup, so I understand their playing style and can create more options for them," Masika said.

With the league title within reach, Masika is focusing on the final seven games, which will be crucial for Gor Mahia's championship aspirations.

"The last seven games are going to be key. We've moved on from the early matches, and now we must approach the remaining fixtures with the seriousness they deserve."

Gor Mahia's next league match is against Murang'a Seal in Murang'a, scheduled for Saturday. However, this fixture comes amidst controversy following crowd violence during the Mashemeji Derby at Nyayo Stadium on April 21.

As a result, both Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards have been slapped with heavy fines by the Sports Stadia Management Board (SSMB).

Gor Mahia, the home team during the derby, was fined Ksh126,000, while AFC Leopards, the away team, was fined Ksh505,450 for the damage caused at the venue.

Furthermore, AFC Leopards have been banned from using Nyayo Stadium until they settle the fine. The fines and the stadium ban stem from a demand letter issued by SSMB's Director General, Pius Metto, dated April 30, 2024.

Gor Mahia win derby

Despite the off-field controversy, Gor Mahia's derby win solidified their lead at the top of the 18-team table, with Odhiambo's lone goal securing a 1-0 victory over AFC Leopards. This victory extended K’Ogalo's lead to nine points and marked a double win over their rivals, having defeated them 2-0 in the first round at Kasarani Stadium in October.

With seven league matches left, Gor Mahia is in a strong position to close out the season on a high note. AFC Leopards, meanwhile, must find an alternative venue for their remaining home games due to the ban from Nyayo Stadium. Their upcoming fixtures include matches against Bandari FC, Kenya Police, Bidco United, and KCB.