Peace and title ambitions at stake as Gor face Ingwe in 96th Mashemeji Derby

After two postponements due to venue unavailability, fans can finally breathe easy as Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards lock horns in the highly anticipated Mashemeji Derby on Sunday at Nyayo National Stadium.

The clash, which was initially scheduled for November 2024 and then earlier this month, promises fireworks as Gor seek to reclaim the top spot while Leopards look to reignite their title ambitions.

For Gor Mahia head coach Sinisa Mihic, this will be his first experience in Kenya’s biggest club rivalry.

The Serbian tactician remains confident in his team’s ability to continue their dominance over Ingwe and believes his charges are well-prepared for the occasion.

"I am sure we will maintain our good run against AFC Leopards. We are favorites based on form, and I’d say our chances of winning are high," Mihic asserted.

Currently third on the FKF Premier League table with 42 points, Gor Mahia can leapfrog leaders Kenya Police (45 points) with a win if the later fail to win their match against Posta Rangers. Second-placed Tusker are just two points ahead of Gor, making this a crucial fixture in K’Ogalo’s title chase.

On the other hand, AFC Leopards, who sit fifth with 36 points, have a golden opportunity to close the gap on the top two teams. A victory over their bitter rivals would not only boost their confidence but also re-establish them as serious title contenders.

Boniface Ambani, who remains unbeaten in the Mashemeji Derby from his playing days, is determined to end Leopards’ poor record against Gor Mahia. The last time Ingwe beat K’Ogalo was in May 2023, and they have won just once in the last nine years against their arch-rivals.

"I have been preparing my players mentally. I want them to believe this match is already won before it is played," Ambani stated.

Leopards last won the league title in 1998, and Ambani, who was part of that victorious squad, is keen to guide the club back to the summit of Kenyan football.

"Ending this poor run against Gor Mahia is one of my priorities. We need to show that we are serious title challengers," he added.

As anticipation builds, both coaches and club captains have called for calm among supporters.

Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards’ past encounters have occasionally been marred by crowd trouble, but Mihic and Ambani have urged fans to maintain peace and enjoy the spectacle.

"This is football; it's not a matter of life and death. Regardless of the result, life goes on, and violence has no place in the game," said Ambani.

Mihic echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing that the Mashemeji Derby should be a celebration of Kenyan football.

"This is a special match, and I expect our fans to enjoy the game in a peaceful manner. Let the football do the talking," Mihic said.