This archive report was first published on 20 June 2020.
Published on June 20, 2020, Denis Otieno, a 21-year-old midfielder for Mathare FC, is one of the many professional footballers affected by the Covid-19 pandemic.
As the pandemic forced the government to halt football activities across the country, Otieno found himself staying indoors, away from the pitch.
"I miss football," he confessed in an interview with Game Yetu. "As a footballer, I have been working to stay in shape, on and off the field, and also avoid getting rusty ahead of next season."
Despite the challenges, Otieno has been keeping himself fit by training within the confines of his home. He also engages in small businesses to make ends meet, with his club sometimes sending him small amounts to cater for himself during tough periods.
"My club sometimes sends us at least something small to cater for ourselves during a tough period. I also have a small business here in Kawangware which after training I get some income to sustain myself," he said.
When asked about his achievements in soccer, Otieno recalled his memorable moment of winning the Kenyan Top Eight Cup with Muhoroni Youth FC against Gor Mahia. He also mentioned his best goal, a sweet curler against Nzoia Sugar FC at Kasarani stadium.
On his future plans, Otieno hopes to be remembered as a football legend and wants to own a football club after he retires from the game. He also prays to see himself play in Europe in the next coming year.
During the lockdown period, Otieno enjoys playing play station (PS4) with his friends and listening to Gengetone music. His favorite meal is Biriani, a Swahili dish.
He believes that the cancellation of the 2019/2020 KPL season, where Gor Mahia were declared champions, was the right decision as it stopped the spread of the virus through social distancing among players and their fans.
Otieno urges Kenyans to follow government directives to stay at home, wear masks, and sanitize to combat the spread of Covid-19.
