Mashemeji derby postponed

By Robert Mutasi

The highly awaited battle between Kenya's football giants, Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards, that was scheduled for Sunday, November 24, 2024, has been postponed due to the unavailability of a venue.

This is after Gor Mahia, through their various verified social media accounts, confirmed that Nyayo National Stadium remains closed for renovations ahead of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) competition in January 2024.

The announcement now leaves fans of the "Mashemeji Derby" disappointed, since they had been expecting the 96th rendition of this long history between them.

This is a match that has a lot of significance to both the fans and the bragging rights between the two teams that are among the most passionately supported in Kenya.

Current defending champions Gor Mahia have been in dominant form this season in the FKF Premier League.

They top the charts with a fantastic record, while having an unbeaten run of 11 matches. The tactician, Jonathan McKinstry, has reiterated that he needs winning momentum to help the club win their 21st league title.

AFC Leopards have been suffering in the recent fixtures between the two arch-rivals and will be seeking to turn the tables.

Fred Ambani, the Leopards' coach, remains optimistic about using the break to rejuvenate his squad.

This postponement adds to the growing narrative of Kenyan football's litany of problems, logistical issues, and stadium management, among other challenges.

However, fans will still throng the stands when a new date and venue are announced for the derby.

As it is now, fans for Gor Mahia seem confident, even as the club has cheekily posted, "They are lucky otherwise…the beating has just been postponed." This reflects the light-hearted rivalry that makes this derby one of the most entertaining fixtures in East Africa.

The Mashemeji Derby carries a rich history, where Gor Mahia seems to have a better head-to-head record over the past couple of years.

The Green Army has won 11 of their 18 encounters since 2016, while AFC Leopards have secured only one victory, with the remainder ending in draws.

Both teams will, however, look forward to capitalizing on the eventual rescheduling to stake their claim in Kenyan football.

They expect an announcement of a new date for the derby soon, while fans crave another chapter in this celebrated rivalry.