The former AFC Leopards and Tusker striker has explained what Gor Mahia can do to avoid repeating mistakes from the past in their quest for CAF Champions League glory.
Former Harambee Stars, AFC Leopards and Tusker striker Boniface Ambani has revealed what Gor Mahia need to do to become competitive in time for next season’s CAF Champions League.
Gor Mahia look all but certain to be Kenya’s representatives at the continent’s premier club competition, as they are now just six points away from claiming a record-extending 21st league crown.
They had a chance to play in the competition this season, but were stripped off their licence after they were taken to CAF by three former players for failing to cleare their dues in time.
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Speaking to Citizen TV, Ambani gave tips to Gor Mahia, revealing what they have to do to avoid finding themselves making the mistakes that cost them dear last year.
"They need to sign proven players with experience of playing continental football, not just other foreign-based players who will come, get paid a lot and fail to deliver, and even take the club to FIFA over contractual issues," Ambani remarked.
Ambani also highlighted the significance of playing high-profile friendlies against teams familiar with continental football to prepare adequately for the challenges ahead.
Gor are set to take part in an invitational inaugural Cole City tournament in Nigeria in August, where they will be playing against seven other teams, including Brazilian Serie A outfit Vitoria FC.
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Additionally, Ambani issued a challenge to other teams in the local league to elevate their standards and challenge the dominance of clubs like Gor Mahia and Tusker FC.
He emphasised the importance of acquiring quality players and implementing robust structures and plans to break the cycle of dominance.
"This dominance is too much, other teams need to ask themselves many questions. They need proper signings, quality players and proper structures and plans put in place to dethrone Gor, or else this dominance will continue for years to come," Ambani asserted.
Regarding the race for the golden boot in the league, Ambani acknowledged the tight competition between Gor Mahia's Benson Omalla and Police FC's Tito Okello, both tied on 15 goals.
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Kariobangi Sharks’ John Mark Makwatta has 11 goals, while Tusker's Eric Kapaito trails with 10 goals.
Ambani, Kenya's all-time top scorer, emphasised the importance of consistency in the final stretch of the season, with five games remaining.
"The race is tight and five games is a lot for a striker who is in-form. Consistency will be very key for whoever will win the golden boot," Ambani concluded.