The Kenyan football community is in mourning following the tragic death of Fortune Sacco FC head coach Sylvester Odero, who passed away on Monday, July 14, 2025, after a fatal road accident.
Odero, who held a CAF B Coaching License, had joined the Kirinyaga-based club in April 2025 after the exit of former coach Michael Etimong.
Despite his brief tenure, he quickly transformed Fortune Sacco FC, leading the team to a strong fifth-place finish in the just-concluded 2024/2025 National Super League (NSL) season.
His death has left a void in the hearts of players, fans, and fellow coaches. Fortune Sacco FC confirmed the news in a heartfelt statement on X:
“We are devastated, shocked, and heartbroken to confirm that our dear coach Sylvester Odero has passed away after a road accident. Out of words. Life is so unfair and unpredictable.”
Odero was widely respected for his tactical brilliance, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the sport.
Fellow NSL clubs and football institutions have paid glowing tributes, describing him as a mentor, a servant of the game, and a pillar of Kenyan football development.
Nairobi United called him “a charismatic leader and one of the best coaches in this country,” while Mwea United FC mourned the loss of “more than just a tactician he was a mentor and a friend.
” University of Embu Queens FC and Kiminini United also expressed their sorrow, noting the deep impact he had on and off the pitch.
Beyond his technical expertise, Odero was known for inspiring young players and fostering unity and discipline within his squad.
His sudden death has shocked the football world, cutting short what many believed would be a promising chapter in Kenyan football coaching.
Investigations into the cause of the accident are ongoing. Meanwhile, tributes continue to pour in, honouring a life that was deeply dedicated to the beautiful game.
