AFC Leopards Coach Explains Why Postponing Mashemeji Derby Against Gor Mahia Was Good For His Charges

AFC Leopards head coach Fred Ambani has revealed that the postponement of the highly anticipated 97th Mashemeji Derby against Gor Mahia turned out to be a blessing in disguise for his team.

The derby, originally scheduled for Sunday, May 11, was called off due to venue complications. Gor Mahia, who were set to host the fixture, had no option but to request a postponement after struggling to secure a suitable venue.

The game was initially slated for Kasarani Stadium, but the Confederation of African Football (CAF) deemed the facility unfit for use. 

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The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) then proposed the Ulinzi Sports Complex as an alternative, but Gor Mahia declined, citing its inadequacy to host such a high-stakes fixture.

Meanwhile, ongoing delays at Nyayo National Stadium—linked to the laying of a new tartan track—have also complicated the situation. 

Kasarani is currently under preparation for the upcoming CHAN tournament, which left organizers hoping Nyayo would be ready in time. 

With no viable alternative, reliable sources had previously told Pulse Sports the derby had been tentatively rescheduled for June 1, a day after the Kip Keino Classic, but the situation is now unclear with Nyayo Stadium still closed.

Speaking after AFC Leopards’ 3-1 victory over Mathare United at Dandora Stadium, Ambani explained why the postponement worked in his team's favor.

“It is very difficult for a coach to prepare the team for a game all week, only for the game to be postponed. It distracts you,” Ambani admitted.

“It has however helped us because it has given us rest. To a player, rest is important, although some people may dismiss its impact. It has given the players something different, so I would say in terms of recovery, it has been incredibly beneficial for us.”

Ambani’s view was echoed by Ronald Sichenje, who found the back of the net during their win over Mathare United.

Asked whether the delay in playing the derby was advantageous for Leopards, Sichenje agreed and used the opportunity to send a defiant message to their archrivals.

“We were prepared because the derby is just like another match to us. We had nothing to lose for this one, but we were prepared for any scenario. They fear us, we do not fear them because they are the ones who need the points more,” he said.

With the fixture now expected to take place on June 1, the additional rest and renewed energy could give AFC Leopards an edge as they aim to spoil Gor Mahia’s title charge in the season’s most heated rivalry.