Gor Mahia coach reveals what players need to work on after title-winning campaign
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Reading Time: 2min | Sat. 04.07.26. | 16:15
Despite facing criticism from sections of the club's supporters during their maiden campaign, the technical bench steered Gor Mahia to a record-extending 22nd FKF Premier League title.
Gor Mahia assistant coach Bismark Kobi-Mensah believes mental toughness, rather than technical ability, is the key area the record Kenyan champions must improve ahead of the new season.
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The Ghanaian tactician, who joined K'Ogalo at the start of last season alongside compatriot Charles Akonnor, said the club's technical bench has identified the psychological aspect of the game as the missing piece despite the squad boasting experienced players with national team pedigree.
Speaking to the club's media, Kobi-Mensah explained that the players require greater mental resilience to consistently deliver under pressure, revealing that the issue became evident during last season's first-leg Mashemeji Derby defeat to AFC Leopards.
"I think Gor Mahia players don't need too much coaching. Most of them are experienced and have played for their national teams. What they need most is mental wellness and toughness because I feel that is the one gap that has been missing," he said.
The 42-year-old pointed to the contrasting performances in the two Mashemeji Derby encounters as proof that mentality can determine results.
Gor Mahia fell 1-0 to AFC Leopards in the first meeting, then responded with an equally impressive 1-0 victory in the return leg after addressing their psychological shortcomings.
"You saw how AFC Leopards handled us in the first leg, but we came back stronger in the second leg. That is one aspect we have identified and something we will continue working on and managing next season," he added.
Kobi-Mensah also described coaching Gor Mahia as one of the most demanding jobs in Kenyan football, citing the immense expectations that accompany the country's most successful club.
"One of the most difficult things to do in Kenya is coaching Gor Mahia because the demands are very high. Every one of our 34 league matches feels like a big game.
There is constant pressure and intensity, making it one of the toughest coaching jobs," he noted.
Despite facing criticism from sections of the club's supporters during their maiden campaign, Kobi-Mensah and Akonnor steered Gor Mahia to a record-extending 22nd FKF Premier League title.
The duo will now turn their attention to defending the league crown while mounting challenges in the Mozzart Bet Cup and the CAF Champions League next season.