Gor Mahia Captain Philemon Otieno In Buoyant Mood Ahead of Mashemeji Derby

Philemon Otieno

Gor Mahia Captain Philemon Otieno In Buoyant Mood Ahead of Mashemeji Derby

Festus Chuma 08:48 - 30.05.2025

Gor Mahia’s captain stirs passion ahead of a rare lakeside derby, where legacy, pride, and title hopes quietly collide.

Gor Mahia captain Philemon Otieno has expressed unwavering confidence ahead of their highly anticipated clash against arch-rivals AFC Leopards.

The "Mashemeji Derby" is set to take place at the Raila Odinga Stadium in Homa Bay on Monday.

Statistics indicate that this will be the first  will be the first 'Mashemeji' derby league fixture to be staged outside Nairobi since Leopards hosted Gor at Afraha Stadium in Nakuru in 2011.

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Captain Otieno Rallies Fans for Historic Mashemeji Derby in Homa Bay

Speaking ahead of the much awaited fixture, Odhiambo stated that the match will be a ahistorical moment in the team's quest to retain the title.

“Even the spirit of Ogalo (father of Gor Mahia) cannot allow us to lose in Homa Bay. It's simply not possible,” Otieno declared in an interview with Nation.

“Homa Bay is our home, and we relish playing in front of our fans outside Nairobi. This club has deep roots in Homa Bay, its birthplace. Losing isn't even a consideration,” Otieno affirmed.

The experienced defender also emphasized the importance of securing maximum points in their pursuit of the league title and their determination not to disappoint their supporters.

“We've played at Raila Odinga Stadium before, but this occasion is special. Everyone in the team is committed to giving their all. We're fighting to win the league,” he added.

Gor Mahia Returns to Its Roots as Homa Bay Hosts Derby for First Time Since 2011

The First leg of the 2024/2025 Mashemeji Derby at Nyayo Stadium on March 30. Photo/AFC Leopards

The match carries significant weight, with Gor Mahia locked in a tight title race with Kenya Police.

Meanwhile, AFC Leopards' coach Fred Ambani boasts an unbeaten record against Gor Mahia, both as a player and a coach, and aims to maintain that streak.

Gor Mahia has set ticket prices at Sh3,000 for VIP and Sh300 for regular admission.

Fans who purchased tickets for the postponed May 11th derby will be refunded. The club has confirmed that no tickets have been reserved for the visiting team, with all tickets available to the public.

The 12,000-capacity Raila Odinga Stadium recently underwent upgrades in preparation for hosting the 61st Madaraka Day celebrations, led by President William Ruto, on Sunday.

FKF Nyanza Regional National Executive Committee Member Collins Kalee assured fans that the pre-match ceremonies would not affect the playing surface.

Gor Mahia, under the guidance of acting coach Zedekiah "Zico" Otieno, will travel to Homa Bay on Sunday evening.

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