Published on March 31, 2025 by Agencies for Kenya Online News
Last Updated on 1 year by Agencies for Kenya Online News
Record league champions Gor Mahia fought to barren draw against arch-rivals AFC Leopards at Nyayo Stadium on Sunday, March 30, 2025.
AFC Leopards coach Fred Ambani maintained his unbeaten record in the ‘Mashemeji’ Derby.
Having never lost a ‘Mashemeji’ Derby during his playing days for Leopards between 1997 and 2001, Ambani made it clear to his squad that defeat was not an option.
“I have informed them (Leopards’ players) that I have played the derby before and I never lost to Gor. So if I never lost as a player, I cannot lose as a coach,” said Ambani in the pre-match press conference on Friday.
True to his words, Ingwe put up a spirited fight, securing a share of the spoils against K’Ogalo. In fact, just like Gor, they could have bagged maximum points had they capitalized on their numerous scoring chances.
In their previous 95 encounters, Gor Mahia have won 33 times, while Leopards have claimed 28 victories, with 34 matches ending in draws. In their last 10 meetings, Gor have won six, Leopards just one, and the remaining three ended in stalemates.
Ingwe’s last victory over K’Ogalo came on May 14, 2023, when they triumphed 2-1. Last season, Gor Mahia dominated both legs, winning 2-0 and 1-0.
Leopards entered the highly anticipated clash in fine form, unbeaten in their last eight league matches. having drawn in their previous three encounters with the Mashemeji derby extending the run to four.
Gor, on the other hand, were determined to extend their remarkable derby dominance, having won 14 times, lost once and drawn four matches against Ingwe since March 2016.
The long-awaited Mashemeji Derby finally kicked off after two previous postponements.
As the referee blew the final whistle, the fierce rivals were forced to settle for a share of the spoils.
Gor Mahia extended their unbeaten run in the fixture, maintaining their psychological edge over Ingwe.
With both teams settling for a point, the stage is now set for an explosive return leg next weekend.
