FOOTBALL Remembering Dennis Oliech's emotional tribute in Gor Mahia thumping of Zamalek

Five years ago, Dennis Oliech honored his late brother by scoring in Gor Mahia's 4-2 victory over Zamalek SC

Five years ago, on February 3, 2019, Kenyan football witnessed a moment of pure nostalgia and brilliance when Dennis Oliech came off the bench to score a defining goal in Gor Mahia's exhilarating 4-2 victory against Egyptian powerhouses Zamalek SC in a CAF Confederation Cup match at the Kasarani Stadium.

Oliech, who had returned to football with Gor Mahia in January after a four-year hiatus came off the bench to score against the African football giants.

His goal was not just a number on the scoreboard but it was a heartfelt tribute to his late brother, Steve Okumu.

"I dedicate this goal to my late brother. I knew I would come on and score, and I wanted to celebrate in the exact same way he did,” Oliech remarked poignantly after the game.

The match began with an intense tempo as Zamalek took he lead in the eighth minute through a splendid shot by Ibrahim Hassan.

However, Gor Mahia despite missing key players Ernest Wendo and Francis Mustafa due to suspensions the Kenyan champions rallied back.

Jacques Tuyisenge emerged as a pivotal figure orchestrating the attack and netting a brace. His first goal a well-placed strike in the 25th minute drew the teams level, setting the stage for an enthralling contest.

Tuyisenge's second goal, a skillful header in the 38th minute, showcased Gor Mahia's resolve and teamwork.

Nicholas Kipkirui, too, left an indelible mark on the match with his glancing header early in the second half tilting the scales in Gor Mahia's favor. Zamalek goalkeeper Emad Elsaye, though valiant in his efforts could not thwart the determined Gor Mahia side.

The climax of the match arrived in stoppage time when Oliech after a strategic substitution outmaneuvered the Zamalek defense and scored the decisive goal.

It was a moment of pure elation and deep emotional resonance as Oliech mirrored his late brother's celebratory gesture, bridging the past and the present in a poignant tribute.

Reflecting on the victory Oliech expressed a team-centric perspective, highlighting the collective effort and determination.

“I am happy that we won. It is not about me but my team, and I am pleased with the result. This is behind us now, and we focus on the next game,” he stated.

Five years have passed, but the echoes of that February afternoon continue to resonate through the corridors of Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, and in the hearts of Gor Mahia fans.

Dennis Oliech's goal against Zamalek SC was not just a moment of victory; it was a narrative of hope, perseverance, and the enduring bonds of brotherhood in the beautiful game of football. 

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