Gor Mahia Eye Venue for Rescheduled Mashemeji Derby Pending FKF Approval

Gor Mahia have identified the newly-renovated Raila Odinga Stadium in Homa Bay as their preferred venue for the rescheduled Mashemeji Derby against AFC Leopards, now slated for June 1.

The FKF Premier League champions were forced to seek an alternative after the initial venue, Kasarani Stadium, was deemed unfit by both the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) and the Confederation of African Football (CAF).

Gor Mahia had rejected the proposal to host the high-profile clash at the Ulinzi Sports Complex, citing its limited capacity.

K'Ogalo had hoped to secure Nyayo Stadium, where AFC Leopards hosted the first-leg that ended in a goalless draw, but renovations have made it unavailable as well.

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With limited options, Gor have now settled on Raila Odinga Stadium, which is set to be officially reopened on Madaraka Day following major upgrades that expanded its capacity to 10,000, aligning it with international standards.

“We have assessed our options, and Homa Bay seems the most suitable. The stands have been expanded, and the derby would be the perfect game to reopen the venue,” a source told Mozzart Sports.

“We've written to FKF about it and are awaiting their feedback. With Kasarani and Nyayo likely unavailable, the only alternative is Ulinzi, which we feel is too small to host a match of this scale.”

The 2nd leg of the Mashemeji Derby carries more than just bragging rights for Gor Mahia.

A loss for K'ogalo could see Kenya Police FC crowned FKF Premier League champions.

Th e 21-time champions are third on the table with 54 points, trailing league leaders Kenya Police who sit at 61.

Adding to the pressure, Gor Mahia recently parted ways with head coach Sinisa Mihic, leaving the team in urgent need of a turnaround to keep their title hopes alive.

Before the derby, Gor Mahia will face Murang’a Seal in the FKF Cup on Sunday at Dandora Stadium, a chance for revenge after Seal held them to a goalless draw last weekend, denting their league campaign.