The 95th edition of the Mashemeji Derby will be the first for AFC Leopards’ coach Tomas Trucha as Ingwe’s tactician, he has also promised a top-class spectacle in the Kenya Premier League showdown.
Trucha has conveyed his readiness for the match, amidst mounting excitement in both Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards camps, as they gear up for Sunday’s clash at Nyayo Stadium.
He exudes confidence in his team’s morale and preparation leading up to the game, emphasizing its significance not only within Kenya but also on the African football stage.
“Everybody is prepared, the mood in the camp is good which is a motivation by itself for this game. It is a big game not only in Kenya but also in Africa. For me this is the first time I oversee the team in the Mashemeji Derby, I am looking forward to it and I will enjoy it.” Trucha said while speaking to the club’s media.
Regarding studying his Sunday opponent, Trucha remarked, “Both teams are strategizing and training for each other. It’s about tactical, mental, and physical preparation. We view the match as a challenge since we’ll be facing the league champions who currently lead the league. It’s a challenge for us to excel and prepare something special for them. Remember, derbies never have favourites; there’s no underdog. It’s always a battle to determine which team emerges victorious, so both sides will come to the match ready to give their all.”
Trucha has implemented some changes in his lineup and anticipates having all his players available for the derby clash.
The second leg of the Mashemeji derby for the 2023/24 season takes centre stage in round 27 of the FKF Premier League, as Gor Mahia prepares to host arch-rivals AFC Leopards on Sunday, April 16, 2024, at 3:00 pm at Nyayo Stadium.
In the initial encounter of the season, Gor Mahia secured a 2-0 victory over Leopards at Kasarani Stadium, claiming early bragging rights.
K’ogalo also enters the derby at the top of the league standings with 54 points, while AFC Leopards, on the other hand, currently sit in 8th place with 38 points.
Nevertheless, AFC Leopards have been experiencing a good run of form in the last 6 matches, winning 3, drawing 2, and losing only one.
