Gor Mahia defender Potiphar Odhiambo has described the pressure of playing for the record Kenyan Premier League champions as a privilege, insisting it is motivating him to work harder as he fights to secure a regular place in the team.Download our Mozzart Sport App for more newsThe experienced centre-back made his debut for K’Ogalo on Tuesday, 13 October when they opened their 2026-2027 FKF Premier League title defence with a 4-2 victory over Murang’a Seal at Nyayo National Stadium.Odhiambo was paired with Frank Odhiambo in central defence, stepping into the starting line-up following the alleged suspension of Mike Kibwage and Sylvester Owino’s absence through injury.##NAJAVA_MECA_110036895##Speaking to Mozzart Sport, the 2020-2021 National Super League (NSL) Most Valuable Player (MVP) acknowledged the expectations that come with representing Gor Mahia but said he was determined to use them as motivation.“Pressure is a privilege. Gor Mahia is a big club in Kenya, and you must be ready to handle the pressure that comes with playing here. I am managing it by staying focused, listening to advice from senior players and taking it one game at a time,” he said.“Earning a starting position is an honour, but it also comes with the responsibility to deliver because the competition is high, with many quality and experienced players like Sili and Kibwage. That pressure pushes all of us to work harder. For me, it is about putting in extra effort to earn my place in the team,” he added.Odhiambo joined Gor Mahia from Kakamega Homeboyz during the off-season transfer window and expressed satisfaction with his first appearance for the club, although the late goals conceded left him disappointed.STARS ABROAD: Ochieng makes European debut as Tera captains Ararat-ArmeniaGor Mahia appeared on course for a comfortable 4-0 victory before Josphat Lopaga, Odhiambo’s former teammate at Homeboyz, struck twice in the closing stages to reduce the deficit and deny the defender a clean sheet on his debut.Despite the late setback, Odhiambo was pleased with the result and grateful for the support he received from the technical bench and his teammates.“It was a special moment for me. The atmosphere, the fans and the pressure were all part of what I expected. All in all, I thank God, the coaches and my fellow players for standing with me,” he said.“It was good to get the win and score four goals, which showed our attacking quality. However, as a defender, I was not happy with conceding two goals. At Gor Mahia, we always want to win and keep a clean sheet,” he added.Blow for Harambee Starlets as striker is set to miss Malawi clashThe former Vihiga Bullets defender will now be aiming to strengthen his position in the team’s backline when Gor Mahia face APS Bomet on Saturday, 17 October at Raila Odinga Stadium in Homa Bay.