Gor Mahia Reveal Key Reason Behind Confidence to Thrash AFC Leopards in Mashemeji Derby

Gor Mahia assistant coach Bismark Kobi-Mensah has explained why they remain confident of beating AFC Leopards in the 99th edition of the Mashemeji derby.

The high-stakes match is scheduled for Sunday, April 26, at the Nyayo National Stadium, with kickoff at 3 PM. Currently, Gor Mahia leads the FKF Premier League table with 58 points, holding a narrow three-point advantage over second-placed AFC Leopards.

Speaking after a training session at Kasarani Annex, coach Kobi-Mensah said Gor Mahia have carefully studied AFC Leopards, pointing out that they have analysed both the team’s strengths and weaknesses in detail as part of their preparation.

He added that the focus now is on putting in the work on the training ground and ensuring the squad is fully ready to execute their game plan when the match comes.

"We have watched AFC Leopards and know their strengths and weaknesses," Kobi-Mensah stated in an interview with Azam TV. "We now just need to work and be ready for the match."

Despite the confidence, the assistant coach also identified two significant areas of concern as the team continues its preparation.

"It is a very big and difficult game," the Ghanaian coach said. "We have not been able to win our last three matches, nor have we scored a goal, and that is a very big worry for us. We are focusing on improving in many areas like that."

This will be the second derby for head coach Charles Akonnor and his technical team, who are looking to avenge a 1-0 loss to AFC Leopards in the first leg on December 7, 2025.

Kobi-Mensah also pointed to a mental lapse that proved costly in their previous encounter with Ingwe.

"It is one game where we really need a stable temperament and to be tactically ready," he explained. "In our last derby, we had some bad moments, more so in the first 10 minutes, where the players looked not to be ready mentally to start the match."