Gor Mahia FC fans in a past mashemeji derby|Photo Courtesy|
The long awaited mashemeji derby between AFC Leopards and Gor Mahia which had been slated to happen this Sunday has been postponed for the second time this season with the new date set to be announced soon.
This follows a series of contradictory messages from the clubs’ leadership. Speaking to media outlets on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, Dan Shikanda, the Chairperson of AFC Leopards had hinted that the match couldn’t be played at Kasarani but rather in Uganda or Tanzania citing lack of venue—a major blow for the derby.
“We may not play at Kasarani and I don’t expect the fixture to be staged in Machakos or Dandora Stadium because these venues cannot host such a big match,” he said.
“How would you move the canopy at Kasarani, which is a construction site? As of now, the game is scheduled for Sunday, but there is no confirmed venue, and I don’t know where we will play. Let FKF plan so that we can play in Uganda or Tanzania, where Harambee Stars have staged their matches,” he suggested.
After a series of meetings later on, Shikanda announced that the derby will be played at Nyayo stadium urging AFC Leopards and Gor Mahia fans to turn up in large numbers.
“Am pleased to inform AFC Leopards and Gor Mahia fans that the much awaited ‘mashemeji’ derby will be played at Nyayo Stadium on Sunday March 2nd at 3PM”, he announced.
Later on in the evening, Gor Mahia FC took to their Facebook page announcing the postponement of the match contradicting the initial announcements made before.
“Our derby match against AFC Leopards that was set for this coming Sunday postponed due to lack of venue. A new date will be communicated,” the club announced.
“Omulepat will not escape the beating, itafika tu,” Gor Mahia posted jokingly.
According to sports journalist Kevin Teya, Ingwe could have failed to receive approval from responsible bodies hence leading to the postponement.
“AFC Leopards have yet to receive approval to use Nyayo National Stadium and are still in discussions with Sports Kenya and the CHAN local organizing committee,” Teya had posted before the postponement.
“If they fail to secure the venue for Sunday’s game, the derby may be cancelled again as construction work has resumed at Moi Kasarani Stadium,” he said.
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