AFC Leopards and Gor Mahia are set to face off in the highly anticipated Mashemeji derby at Nyayo Stadium on Sunday, with both teams looking to claim maximum points in a season where neither has been in top form.
Former AFC Leopards and Gor Mahia goalkeeper Wycliffe Kasaya has weighed in on the upcoming fixture, expressing his hope that Ingwe can turn the tide and secure a win against their arch-rivals. He acknowledged that while the match is unpredictable due to both sides’ inconsistent performances, he would like to see AFC Leopards put an end to Gor Mahia’s dominance in this derby.
“Gor Mahia has dominated this fixture for years, and I don’t like that. I want Ingwe to show more fighting spirit and try to win the game,” Kasaya remarked. “This derby will be unpredictable because both teams are currently not in their best form, and only six points separate them on the table.”
The retired goalkeeper praised AFC Leopards for their commitment to nurturing young talent, highlighting coach Fred Ambani’s role in ensuring a smooth transition for emerging players. He believes that under Ambani’s leadership, the club has a bright future ahead.
“One thing I appreciate about Leopards is their faith in a local coach, Ambani. He believes in young players, and I’m confident he’ll be successful because he coached me at Nakumatt, so I know his capabilities,” he added.
Beyond the action on the pitch, Kasaya emphasized the importance of fan support, calling for a packed Nyayo Stadium to create an electrifying atmosphere similar to the one witnessed during the recent Harambee Stars versus Gabon match.
“The derby is the marquee fixture of our league, and we need to demonstrate its importance by having a fully packed Nyayo National Stadium,” he said.
Originally slated for November 2024, the Mashemeji derby has faced multiple postponements, with the match rescheduled for March 2, 2025, before being pushed back again due to venue unavailability. The game has traditionally been played at either Nyayo or Kasarani Stadiums, both of which had been closed for renovations since late last year.
Nyayo Stadium was reopened two weeks ago and has already hosted two international matches. The Junior Starlets secured a 3-0 victory against Uganda on March 16, while Harambee Stars suffered a 2-1 loss to Gabon in a 2026 World Cup qualifier.
With anticipation building ahead of the derby, all eyes will be on AFC Leopards and Gor Mahia as they battle for supremacy in one of the most iconic fixtures in Kenyan football.
