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The Nairobian

Mashemeji Derby: Bring it on! Ingwe dare rivals K'Ogalo

Football

By Washington Onyango | Apr 21, 2024

Kennedy Onyango (L) of Gor Mahia FC fight for ball with Brian Yakhama of AFC Leopards SC during their FKF Premier League match dubbed Mashemeji Derby at Kasarani Main Stadium in Nairobi on October 07, 2023. [Stafford Ondego, Standard]

Today promises to be a thrilling spectacle at Nyayo Stadium as Kenya's fiercest football rivals, Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards, face off in the 95th edition of the Mashemeji Derby.

The highly anticipated clash, set to kick off at 3:00 pm, will showcase the intensity and passion that defines this historic fixture.

Gor Mahia, currently leading the FKF Premier League with 54 points, are looking to solidify their position at the top of the table.

The defending champions have been in outstanding form, winning 15 matches and losing only two so far this season.

However, their arch-rivals, AFC Leopards, who sit eighth in the standings with 38 points, are determined to defy the odds and claim bragging rights in today's encounter.

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Leading AFC Leopards into battle will be captain Cliff Miheso, who is gearing up for his third Mashemeji Derby appearance and first as captain against his former club.

Miheso expressed the magnitude of the occasion, emphasising the honour and responsibility of representing his team in such a significant fixture.

"This game means everything to the team. It’s not just about the points but the pride and passion of our supporters," Miheso stated.

Miheso's sentiments were echoed by coach Tomas Trucha who said: "The mood in the camp is good, which is a motivation by itself for this game. It is a big game not only in Kenya but also in Africa. We take the match as a challenge because we will be facing the league champions who are currently the league leaders."

"It's all about tactical, mental, and physical preparation. Both teams will come to the match ready to give it all," said Trucha as he urged fans to turn out in numbers.

With Nyayo Stadium expected to be a sea of green and blue, both teams are poised to deliver an unforgettable display of skill, determination, and passion.

According to Big Brother Events and Ticketing, a company mandated to handle the game's ticketing, director Alfred Rafimbi, they have put in place mechanisms to ensure a swift and timely sale of tickets.

“We have set designated areas where we shall be selling the tickets at Kenya Cinema, Tom Mboya statue next to the National Archives, City Stadium, Riadha House, and Nyayo Stadium opposite the Police Post Gate. The ticket will go for Sh1000 for VIP seats and Sh300 for regular seats,” Rafimbi said.

As per a directive from FKF, Gor Mahia fans intendiing to watch the match from the VIP stand are advised to access the stadium through the VIP Gate A while those with regular tickets will use Gates 2 and 3.

On the other side, AFC Leopards fans who wish to access the VIP stand are advised to do so via VIP Gate B while those with regular tickets will enter the stadium via Gates 8 and 10.
Whether Gor Mahia maintains their dominance or AFC Leopards spring a surprise remains to be seen, but one thing is certain – the Mashemeji Derby will deliver excitement and drama in abundance.