Gor Mahia: Is Endless Dominance by Perennial Champions Making the FKF Premier League Boring?

Gor Mahia: Is Endless Dominance by Perennial Champions Making the FKF Premier League Boring?

Robert Abong'o
May 29, 2024 at 1:30 PM
In this article:
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Gor Mahia
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KEN Premier League
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  • Gor Mahia's dominance in the Kenyan football league has sparked debates
  • Other teams have failed to challenge the 21-time champions' supremacy
  • Some fans argue that K'Ogalo's success is making the league monotonous

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Since 2013, Gor Mahia have reigned supreme in Kenyan football, sparking a debate about whether their dominance has become tedious for fans and pundits alike.

Tusker FC broke the Green Army's winning streak only twice, in 2016 and 2021, but the recent capture of their 21st FKF Premier League title highlights their undisputed supremacy.

Despite Gor Mahia's success, the lack of competition for the top spot has left some fans longing for a more thrilling title race.

Gor Mahia fans cheer their team on at the Kasarani Stadium in Nairobi during a CAF Confederation Cup clash vs Algeria's USM Alger on May 16, 2018, at Photo by Tony Karumba.
Gor Mahia fans react during a CAF Confederation Cup match against Algeria's USM Alger on May 16, 2018, at the Kasarani Stadium, Nairobi. Photo by Tony Karumba.
Source: Getty Images

Former Harambee Stars defender, John 'Bobby' Ogolla, recently addressed the issue, stressing the absence of drama and suspense in the title race.

K'Ogalo’s storied history dates back to their first league success in 1968. Their golden era spanned the late 1970s to the early 1990s, with triumphs in 1976, 1979, 1983, 1984, and 1985, culminating in their historic African Cup Winners' Cup victory in 1987.

The 1990s continued to see multiple league titles, solidifying their legacy. However, the early 2000s brought financial and managerial challenges, momentarily dimming their dominance.

Per Citizen, Ogolla pointed out that financial constraints and other clubs' lack of robust structures create an uneven playing field, making it hard for competitors to challenge the perennial Kenyan champions effectively.

Analysing the positives of Gor Mahia's FKF PL dominance

Building a Culture of Winning

Dismissing Gor Mahia's dominance as merely boring overlooks several positive aspects. The club’s resurgence in 2013 marked a new era of success, with six league titles in seven years.

Even though the Brewers briefly interrupted this streak, Gor's resilience saw them quickly reclaim their top position. In the 2024 season, they maintained a commanding 11-point lead over their closest rivals, as reported by The Standard.

While their consistent excellence is commendable, the lack of fierce competition may diminish the excitement for fans. Football thrives on competition, unpredictability, and the thrill of underdog victories - elements that seem overshadowed by the club's sustained success.

Gor Mahia's winning mentality fosters a culture of excellence within the club, driving continuous improvement. This success could motivate other clubs to enhance their infrastructure and player development, potentially leading to a more competitive league over time.

Other clubs must step up, challenge Gor, and create a more competitive environment to rekindle interest in the Kenyan league and keep fans engaged. Addressing financial and structural issues within other clubs is essential to levelling the playing field and revitalising the local football scene.

Gor Mahia chairman refutes blocking Omalla's transfer

Sports Brief also reported that Gor Mahia chairman, Ambrose Rachier, pushed back against rumours suggesting the club obstructed Omalla's move to JS Saoura.

The club chief clarified the circumstances of the transfer saga, explaining that the Algerian club had approached them five days before the transfer window closed.

Rachier stated that the reigning FKF Premier League champions had 'promptly initiated' the paperwork and he had signed off on all the necessary documents.

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Robert Abong'o
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