Only the mentally strong will survive Kenyan Premier League title race – Charles Akonnor

Gor Mahia coach Charles Akonnor has underlined the importance of mental resilience as the Kenyan Premier League title race enters a decisive phase.

Following a commanding 3-0 victory over KCB at Nyayo Stadium on Sunday, the record champions reclaimed a six-point lead over AFC Leopards, who had narrowed the gap to three points with a 2-1 win over Posta Rangers the previous day.

Speaking after the KCB win, Akonnor highlighted the role of psychological strength in determining the eventual champion.

“Of course, in football there is always pressure, and we like it, it is a healthy one,” he said. “The team that will have the nerves to keep going is the team that will probably go far,” he added, pointing to the mental toughness required to endure the season’s intensity.

Akonnor also expressed confidence in his squad’s growth and composure. “If you look at it some four, five months ago, we would be a little bit worried but now, we are very confident of how the players possess things, and how they play,” he noted, emphasizing their understanding and cohesion on the field.

Reflecting on the performance against KCB, he praised the team’s focus and tactical discipline. “We were a little bit aggressive… we didn’t want to give them a chance, and we did it very well,” he said, citing their precise passing and wide-play that ensured dominance.

With five crucial fixtures ahead – including Posta Rangers, Ulinzi Stars, Shabana, Tusker FC, and Kariobangi Sharks – Akonnor stressed that mental fortitude will be decisive.

“The team that navigates the remaining stretch with confidence and composure is most likely to lift the coveted title,” he concluded.