Unpredictable Leopards eye Mashemeji Derby lift

Gor Mahia FC's Joshua Onyango demonstrates respect for AFC Leopards' Kelly Okonji and the 96th edition of Mashemeji Derby during FKF Premier league match at the Nyayo National Stadium on Sunday, March 30, 2025. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

AFC Leopards will head into tomorrow’s Mashemeji Derby against rivals Gor Mahia with renewed belief as head coach Fred Ambani urges his squad to stay focused and motivated.

The derby, set for Nyayo Stadium, comes at a time when both clubs are pushing to climb the SportPesa Premier League table, with Gor sitting joint-top with Kakamega Homeboyz (19 points) and Leopards looking to break a three-match winless run.

Ambani said individual motivation will be as important as team strategy when Ingwe step onto the pitch for the 98th edition of the famous clash.

“In such a big game, scouts are always watching. Players must be motivated on their own to give their best and show what they can do,” Ambani said.

“I am not under pressure as a coach, and I’ve told my players to stay calm and play with confidence.”

Leopards coach added that the derby is more than just the rivalry—it is an opportunity for players to showcase their talent and possibly open doors for future moves.

For new signing James Kinyanjui, the match marks a major personal milestone.

“It’s my first derby, and I know the stadium will be full. The support both teams have is huge. It’s a must-win game for us because the points difference on the league table is small,” said Kinyanjui.

AFC captain Victor Omune echoed Kinyanjui’s sentiment, stressing the value of victory both for the team and their loyal fans.

“The derby is a big game, everyone will be watching. It’s been three matches without a win for us, and we want to change that on Sunday and make our fans happy,” Omune said. While tomorrow brings the spotlight to Nyayo, today’s fixtures will also play a huge role in shaping the table, especially for defending champions Kenya Police, who are chasing the league’s top spot.

Police, currently third with 17 points, are just two behind joint leaders Gor Mahia and Kakamega Homeboyz. They face Kariobangi Sharks at the Kasarani Annex, a match that offers them a chance to leapfrog both leaders if results go their way.

The law enforcers will be eager to bounce back after last weekend’s 1-0 loss to Shabana, a result that slowed their climb after strong performances earlier in the season.

Elsewhere, Shabana will be back at Gusii Stadium, where they host Bidco United.

The Glamour Boys will be motivated by their win against Police and will hope to use home support to secure another vital victory. Bidco, however, have proven difficult to break down and will aim to frustrate the hosts while stealing something from the match.

At the Kasarani Stadium, KCB will take on Sofapaka in another important fixture. KCB have been hot and cold this season.