Gor Mahia bring back Ali Abondo to lead Queens promotion push

Former Gor Mahia midfielder Ali ‘Teargas’ Abondo has returned to the Kenyan giants, this time taking charge of the club’s women’s team, Gor Mahia Queens.

The FKF Premier League champions confirmed Abondo’s appointment following the departure of immediate former head coach Tom Odiyo over the weekend.

“Legend Victor Ali Abondo is back at the club, this time, on the touchline as the new head coach of our ladies’ team, Gor Mahia Queens,” the club said.

The appointment marks a new chapter for Abondo, who remains a popular figure among Gor Mahia supporters despite having represented several clubs during his playing career both in Kenya and abroad.

From derby drama to Gor Mahia legend

Abondo became widely known as ‘Teargas’ following a dramatic incident during a Mashemeji Derby in 2012. His dismissal during the fiercely contested encounter sparked crowd unrest, with supporters engaging in running battles with police officers.

Beyond the controversy surrounding his nickname, Abondo enjoyed a decorated career, with much of his success coming in Gor Mahia colours.

He helped K’Ogalo win the 2015 Kenya Premier League title, as well as the 2015 and 2017 Super Cup trophies. He was also part of the Gor Mahia side that lifted the 2012 FKF Cup and 2015 Top 8 Cup.

His trophy cabinet also includes the 2011 league title with Tusker, the 2014 Top 8 Cup with the club and another league championship with Sony Sugar in 2006.

Tough promotion task awaits

Abondo now returns to Gor Mahia with the immediate challenge of guiding Queens towards a historic place in the Women’s Premier League.

The former midfielder holds a CAF C coaching licence and, before his appointment, had been developing young players through his Ali Abondo Academy.

His task will be particularly demanding given how close Gor Mahia Queens came to securing promotion last season.

The side narrowly missed out after suffering a 2-0 defeat to Elim White Ladies in a promotion playoff at Afraha Stadium in June.

Abondo will therefore be expected to build on that campaign and finally steer Gor Mahia Queens into the Women’s Premier League.