Tusker FC goalkeeper opens up on personal issue that affected his performance last season
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Reading Time: 3min | Tue. 23.06.26. | 12:26
The custodian had a decent 2024-2025 season only for his performances to drop significantly in the concluded campaign
Tusker FC goalkeeper Brian Opondo has revealed the personal struggles that contributed to a difficult 2025-2026 FKF Premier League campaign, opening up on how his mother's battle with cancer affected both his mental wellbeing and performances on the pitch.
For a goalkeeper who enjoyed a stellar 2024-2025 season and established himself as Tusker's first-choice custodian, the recently concluded campaign presented a stark contrast.
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Opondo managed just nine league appearances throughout the season as he slipped down the goalkeeping pecking order, struggling to replicate the form that had previously made him one of the club's most dependable performers.
Behind the scenes, however, the 26-year-old was fighting a battle far bigger than football.
Speaking to Mozzart Sport, the former Bidco United shot-stopper disclosed that he spent much of the season worried about his mother's deteriorating health as she underwent treatment for cancer.
According to Opondo, her condition worsened significantly at the turn of the year, forcing frequent hospital visits and leaving him emotionally drained.
The Harambee Stars goalkeeper admitted that the uncertainty surrounding his mother's health affected him mentally, making it difficult to fully focus on football.
The emotional strain, he says, ultimately translated to his performances and contributed to him falling out of favour in Tusker's goalkeeping department.
"I have had one of the most lowest yet difficult moments of my career. I was deeply fighting a battle that many people did not know about. I had an ailing mum who has been hospitalised due to cancer. Her situation had worsened and it affected me mentally. I felt disturbed throughout and couldn't effectively give my best, and it translated to my performances on the pitch," he opened up.
Reflecting on the season, Opondo was candid in admitting that he fell short of the standards and targets he had set for himself.
"I felt I had a below-par season because I wasn't able to meet my targets," he added.
Despite the setbacks, the goalkeeper is now looking ahead with renewed optimism.
Encouragingly, he says his mother's condition has improved, giving him fresh motivation as he prepares for the upcoming campaign.
With Kenya set to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations alongside Uganda and Tanzania, the former Green Commando's goalie is determined to rediscover his best form and force his way back into the national team setup.
"Hopefully, since Mum's situation is improving, heading into the new season I am looking forward to returning to my best and earning a national team call-up for AFCON," he said.
As Tusker prepares for the 2026-2027 season, Opondo will face stiff competition from Brandon Obiero and Congolese goalkeeper Pavelh Ndzila for the number one position between the Brewers posts.