It was an afternoon of passion, resilience, and missed chances at Kasarani Stadium, where Gor Mahia were held to a 1–1 draw by a spirited Ulinzi Stars side in an Sportpesa League encounter that had everything — goals, bookings, and moments of brilliance on both ends.
The match began with Gor Mahia setting the tempo from the first whistle. Within the opening minutes, Ben Stanley came close to giving the hosts the lead, but his effort was cleared off the line. Just a minute later, the breakthrough arrived — Felix Oluoch latched onto a quick pass and calmly slotted the ball past Ulinzi’s goalkeeper to make it 1–0 in the sixth minute, sending the Kasarani crowd into early celebration.
Gor continued to dominate possession, with Morrisson controlling the midfield and Austine pushing forward at every opportunity. The visitors, however, slowly grew into the game, and their persistence paid off in the 34th minute. A swift counterattack from Ulinzi Stars saw Boniface Muchiri finish off a well-worked move to level the score at 1–1.
Both teams went into halftime on even terms, with Gor Mahia ruing missed chances and Ulinzi buoyed by their fightback.
The second half began with a substitution for Gor Mahia, as Austine replaced Ben Stanley, injecting new energy into the midfield. The hosts continued to press high, creating several half-chances through Bryne Omondi, Kibwage, and Felix Oluoch, but the Ulinzi backline stood firm.
On the other end, Ulinzi looked increasingly dangerous on the counter. In the 61st minute, coach Bernard Mwalala introduced Paul Odhiambo for Enosh Ochieng, adding fresh legs up front. Moments later, Timothy Odhiambo produced a stunning save to deny Musa Shariff, keeping the Soldiers in the game.
As the match entered the final quarter-hour, both teams chased the winner. Gor Mahia made a triple substitution, with Felix Oluoch, Musa Shariff, and Essombe making way for Reagan, George, and Chris, while Ulinzi introduced Walter Wafula for Peter Mwanyika in his debut appearance.
Despite the intensity, neither side could find the decisive goal. Gor Mahia pressed relentlessly, earning several corners through Austine, but Ulinzi’s defence marshalled by Birgen and Mwanyika held their ground. In the dying moments, Ulinzi nearly snatched victory when Paul Odhiambo fired from distance, forcing Byrne Omondi into a sharp save.
After six minutes of added time, the referee’s whistle brought an end to a thrilling contest that showcased both sides’ tactical discipline and fighting spirit.
Speaking after the match, Gor Mahia’s camp expressed disappointment at missing out on all three points but praised the players’ effort and the fans’ unwavering support. Ulinzi Stars, on their part, hailed their side’s resilience and determination to come from behind against the league champions.
The result leaves both teams with a valuable point Gor Mahia maintaining their push near the top of the table, and Ulinzi Stars continuing their steady climb in the standings.
