Gor Mahia eye redemption as Leo Neiva faces pressure to deliver against Murang’a Seal

Gor Mahia's Shariff Musa (right) battles for possession with KCB's Kevin Okumu during their FKF Premier League clash at Dandora Stadium on October 23, 2024.

Gor Mahia eye redemption as Leo Neiva faces pressure to deliver against Murang’a Seal

Festus Chuma 07:30 - 02.11.2024

Gor Mahia head coach Leo Neiva aims for a critical comeback as pressure mounts in their upcoming clash with Murang’a Seal.

Gor Mahia will be looking to reignite their winning form as they host Murang’a Seal at Kenyatta Stadium in Machakos County on Saturday afternoon.

The defending champions started their title defense with a commanding 4-0 victory over Mathare United, followed by a solid 3-0 win against Posta Rangers.

However, their momentum was halted with a goalless draw against Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB) before suffering a surprising 2-1 loss to Nairobi City Stars—a first in five encounters against Simba wa Nairobi.

Reflecting on the recent loss, Gor Mahia’s head coach Leonardo Neiva shared his optimism and long-term vision for the team.

“We are not at our 100% since we exited CAF Champions League,” Neiva told reporters.

“But I have been impressed because my boys have given their best in this match. We are going to keep our eyes on the prize, retaining the title.”

Despite the setback, Neiva is confident that his side is steadily building towards a more formidable future.

The recent defeat has left Gor Mahia at ninth in the league standings with seven points, trailing leaders KCB by ten points, though KCB has played three more matches.

K'Ogalo's defense had been watertight, conceding only two goals in four matches—a figure they'll aim to keep low against Murang’a Seal.

Meanwhile, Murang’a Seal comes into this match after a series of mixed results.

The Central Kenya-based side claimed narrow victories over Ulinzi Stars and AFC Leopards, both ending 1-0, but struggled to maintain consistency, managing only two draws against Bandari and Mara Sugar before back-to-back losses to Kariobangi Sharks and KCB.

Seal’s attack has been relatively blunt, scoring only two goals in their last five outings and their challenge will be to find a way past Gor Mahia’s otherwise sturdy defense a task made even tougher by their inconsistent form on the road.

Gor Mahia’s home form, however, has been promising, with four goals scored in their last two home games.

Last season they played out a scoreless draw with Murang’a Seal before dominating the reverse fixture with a 3-1 win.