AFC Leopards and Kenyan record champions Gor Mahia were supposed to meet on Sunday 24 November 2024 in the first leg of the Mashemeji Derby in the Football Kenya Federation Premier League 24/25 season.
However with only five match days remaining, the match location remains in doubt as AFC Leopards, who were supposed to host the match, are still waiting for permission for the match venue.
Promotional material advertising the match indicated that the Nyayo National Stadium, which was closed for renovations for the upcoming 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), would host the eagerly awaited match.
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However, SportPesa Blog can confirm that the 12-time Kenyan champions are yet to receive permission from Sports Kenya regarding whether the match will be allowed to take place at the venue or not.
SportPesa Blog understands that Ingwe chairman Dan Shikanda submitted a request to Sports Kenya on Monday asking to use the high-stakes match but no response was forthcoming with the club hoping to get confirmation by Tuesday.
Since the closure of the Moi International Sports Center in Kasarani and Nyayo Stadium for CHAN upgrades, teams have been forced to use Kenyatta Stadium in Machakos, Dandora Stadium and even other facilities such as Kinoru Stadium in Meru for hosting purposes.
However, none of the stadiums meets the requirements to host a high-stakes match such as the Mashemeji Derby, so the match would be in limbo if the request is rejected.
Unlike Kasarani Stadium, SportPesa Blog was informed that the playing surface at Nyayo National Stadium was not affected and the only concern was the supporting infrastructure which was being upgraded which was largely affected.
If the match goes ahead, both teams will be looking for three points to appease their fans ahead of a disappointing start to the season.
Tomas Trucha’s AFC Leopards will be looking for their fourth win of the season after eight matches while Gor Mahia, who recently parted ways with Brazilian tactician Leo Martin Neiva, will be looking for their third win of the season.
Last season, K’Ogalo, under the guidance of Johnathan McKinstry, claimed the most pride after dominating both legs.
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In the first leg, Gor Mahia hosted AFC Leopards at Moi International Stadium and won 2-0 with two goals from Benson Omalla.
In the second leg played at Nyayo Stadium, Gor Mahia completed a double over Ingwe with a 1-0 win.
Austin Odhiambo scored the only goal of the game in the first half, and although Gor Mahia were reduced to 10 men after goalkeeper Kevin Omondi was sent off for a foul on Victor Omune, they held on to win.
In their last six meetings, Gor Mahia have won three times, while AFC Leopards have won once, and the two teams have shared points twice.
Mashemi Derby last 6 meetings
Gor Mahia 1-0 Leopards AFC
AFC Leopards 0-2 Gor Mahia
Gor Mahia 1-2 Leopards AFC
AFC Leopards 0-0 Gor Mahia
Gor Mahia 1-1 Leopards AFC
AFC Leopards 0-1 Gor Mahia
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