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AFC Leopards beat Gor Mahia 1-0 during the 98th Mashemeji Derby at Nyayo Stadium, with Harambee Stars forward Victor Omune's influence vital.
On Sunday, 7th December 2025, AFC Leopards secured a significant 1-0 victory over their long-time rivals Gor Mahia in an FKF Premier League clash at Nyayo National Stadium. The solitary goal from Julius Masaba not only handed Ingwe their first derby win since April 2023 but also demonstrated a commanding performance, particularly in the first half.
While the result alone was cause for celebration among Leopards supporters, it was the manner of the win that stood out—Fred Ambani’s side dominated large periods of the game. Central to this dominance was Victor Omune, whose influence throughout the match was vital. Leading by example, Omune delivered a performance that impressed many, helping to secure all three points for Ingwe.
Pulse Sports breaks down how Omune’s tactical role and execution shaped Leopards’ victory:
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12:19 - 08.12.2025
Gor Mahia lost 1-0 to AFC Leopards in the 98th Mashemeji Derby on Sunday, with Ingwe quite frankly the better team on the day.
How Both Teams Lined Up
AFC Leopards head coach Fred Ambani opted for a 4-2-3-1 formation. Humphrey Katasi started in goal, with Kayci Odhiambo and Randi Bakari pairing up in central defence. Simon Semo and Brian Ojok occupied the full-back positions.
In midfield, Boniface Kweyu and Musa Oundo held the double pivot, while Tyson Otieno played in the attacking midfield role. James Kinyanjui and Julius Masaba operated on the flanks, supporting Victor Omune, who was nominally the lone striker.
On the other side, Gor Mahia’s coach Charles Akonnor selected a back four featuring Mike Kibwage, Sylvester Owino, Paul Ochuoga, and Bryton Onyona, with Bryne Omondi in goal. The midfield trio consisted of Enock Morrison, Austin Odhiambo, and Fidel Origa. Upfront, Ebenezer Adu-Kwaw, Felix Oluoch, and Shariff Musa were tasked with breaking down the Leopards defense.
Omune’s Tactical Impact on Leopards’ Dominance
Although Omune was listed as the number nine, his role on the pitch was far from that of a traditional striker. He operated as a hybrid forward, frequently dropping into pockets of space between the lines to exploit gaps left by Gor Mahia’s deep-lying midfielders—particularly when Enock Morrison moved between or alongside the centre-backs during build-up play.
Omune’s intelligent movement was apparent from the very first minute, as he skillfully dragged defenders Sylvester Owino and Mike Kibwage out of position. This displacement created crucial space for teammates Julius Masaba and Musa Oundo to exploit. On one early occasion, Masaba’s attempt to capitalize was thwarted by an over-complicated touch, allowing goalkeeper Bryne Omondi to collect comfortably.
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09:49 - 08.12.2025
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Throughout the game, Omune continued to unsettle Gor Mahia’s defense. By pulling defenders out wide, he repeatedly opened passing lanes and pockets of space for Ingwe’s attacking players. A notable moment came just after halftime when Omune drew Owino far from his position, creating room for Tyson Otieno to send a well-placed diagonal pass that led to a corner kick.
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Inside the penalty area, Omune posed a constant aerial threat. Just before halftime, he connected with a precise cross from Kinyanjui but directed his header narrowly wide.
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His aerial ability was again evident in the second half when he flicked on a corner delivered by Kinyanjui; however, Musa Oundo’s mistimed header meant the chance went begging.
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Leopards’ dominance was further amplified by Gor Mahia’s midfielders’ lack of intensity in tracking back, which allowed Omune and his teammates to maintain pressure and control for large periods of the match. This midfield softness off the ball ultimately proved decisive.
Ambani on Omune’s Influence
Speaking after the game, Fred Ambani praised Omune’s importance to the team and the role experience played in their victory:
“I played more experienced players today because we wanted people with the knowhow of big games and who would retain the ball,” Ambani explained.
“Omune had a very good game. We missed him in the first few games because of injuries, but he has been doing a good job. Most of our play revolves around him. I am very proud of his influence today.”
Victor Omune’s tactical intelligence and dynamic movement were pivotal in shaping AFC Leopards’ victory over Gor Mahia in the 98th Mashemeji Derby.
His ability to exploit spaces and drag defenders out of position created opportunities that the team capitalized on, while Gor Mahia’s midfield softness off the ball left them vulnerable throughout.