Gor Mahia Coach Charles Akonnor On Why Austin Odhiambo Started on Bench Against Kakamega Homeboyz

Gor Mahia coach Charles Akonnor has shed light on why Austin Odhiambo was left out of the starting lineup in their clash against Kakamega Homeboyz.

The reigning Kenyan Premier League champions returned to winning ways thanks to Alpha Chris Onyango’s decisive strike.

However, changes to the starting XI, including the benching of attacking midfielder Austin Odhiambo, sparked questions, which Charles Akonnor has now addressed.

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When asked about Austin Odhiambo, the Gor Mahia coach remained vague but explained that the player remains a key part of Gor Mahia.

Charles Akonnor emphasised that the decision was situational and did not reflect any doubts about Odhiambo’s importance to the team.

“Austin is one of us, today, he was on the bench,” Charles Akonnor said after the match.

Charles Akonnor further indicated that Austin Odhiambo’s absence from the starting lineup in the first half might be connected to the long and demanding season, particularly given the number of Gor Mahia players who also feature for Harambee Stars.

He explained that while all players remain physically fit, combining club responsibilities with international duties places a significant load on them, which the coaching staff must manage carefully.

Charles Akonnor highlighted that several players, including Austin Odhiambo, have been competing continuously for over a year without substantial breaks, and such accumulated fatigue can influence decisions on starting lineups.

“It’s a long season, and don’t forget, we have like seven players in the national team, if you combine what they do with the national team and back, which is good, we are proud that they are national players, but it’s a lot of load,” he added.

“It’s not to say that they are not fit. These guys have been playing for over a year without a break. You have to consider a lot of things, and sometimes, it’s fatigue.”

Gor Mahia are now set to face Nairobi United in a high-stakes ‘grudge match’ this Sunday, December 21, 2025, at Nyayo National Stadium, seeking redemption for their FKF Cup final defeat earlier this year.