Gor Mahia in the 1983 Africa cup winners cup

Gor Mahia qualified for the 1983 Africa cup winners cup by virtue of having finished as the runners up in the 1982 Kenya National Football League. In 1983 Gor Mahia were in rebuilding mode having lost several stalwarts who left after the 1982 season: The legendary Allan Thigo hung up his boots as did Tim Ayieko and Paul Oduwo “Cobra”. Andrew Obunga, Mike Ogolla, George Ayuka and Charles Ondiek were serving suspensions due to the Dinamo de Fima fiasco. Supernovae Nahashon Oluoch and Sammy Owino had left for the USA. George Yoga disappeared from the scene never to be seen in a Kogalo jersey again.

Gor Mahia recruited a new batch of players, the likes of Charles Otieno, Hezborn Omollo, Abdallah Shebe David Ochieng, and John Okello Zangi. Jerry Imbo was the player/coach.

First Round vs Vital O of Burundi

The first leg against Vital O was played in Bujumbura. Gor Mahia dominated the match and created numerous scoring chances.  Freekick specialist Bobby Ogolla scored from a direct free kick. Abdallah Shebe added the second goal. The Burundians then pulled on back. In the 70th minite, Gor Mahia were awarded a penalty but Abbey Nassur’s effort was saved by the goalkeeper.  Gor Mahia won the first leg 2-1.

Line-Up: Dan Odhiambo, Peter Otieno Bassanga, Mike Adede, Hamisi Shamba, Bob Ogolla, George Otieno Vigo, Abbey Nassur, Charles Otieno, Abdalla Shebe (Hezborn Omollo), John Chore, Sammy Onyango.

The return leg was played in Nairobi. Gor Mahia played poorly and appeared unmotivated. They inexplicably lost 3-0.

Irate fans blamed Chairman Zack Mbori. Some fans carried former Chairman David Opar shoulder high outside the stadium and demanded that he return to his position. An interal  investigation found that the club was sabotaged by a section of fans former officials and some senior players who were disgruntled with the current club management. After the fiasco, MIke Ogolla Machine, Andrew Obunga, Charles Ondiek and George Ayuka were expelled from the club.