Charles Akonnor Explains Gor Mahia’s Triumph Over AFC Leopards in the Mashemeji Derby

In the thrilling 99th derby held at Nyayo National Stadium, Gor Mahia secured the bragging rights with a last-minute goal from captain Alpha Onyango, allowing them to put six points between themselves and their rivals on the 18-team league table.

This victory allowed Gor Mahia to exact revenge for their earlier defeat in the first round, which had been claimed by AFC Leopards by the same margin.

Before this highly anticipated clash, Gor Mahia boasted 17 wins, seven draws, and four losses, while AFC Leopards, under the guidance of former player and current head coach Fred Ambani, had logged 16 victories, seven draws, and five losses.

‘I commend my players for the win’

“In the first half, you could see that we were on top; we controlled the play, and they struggled to keep up, which was our game plan. I must commend the players for their outstanding effort,” stated Akonnor.

“It wasn’t solely about the win, but also the performance and belief in the team. Even when we had numerous chances in the first half without scoring, the players remained determined, worked diligently, and were eventually rewarded with that goal.”

Akonnor further remarked: “Everything we strategised and aimed for on the pitch was achieved. The team executed our plan precisely, and I am extremely proud of their performance.”

‘Gor Mahia’s goal came unexpectedly’

AFC Leopards coach Fred Ambani expressed his disappointment regarding the way his team conceded the goal that ultimately secured victory for their opponents.

“We lost due to a stroke of bad luck. If you examine the goal we conceded, it wasn’t one that Gor Mahia orchestrated or created; it came out of the blue. I’ll just say it wasn’t our day,” said Ambani.

“In the second half, we controlled the game and had the upper hand over Gor Mahia, yet they were fortunate enough to score. Kelly (Madada) brought a crucial change into the team that we lacked in the first half, but our loss can still be attributed to bad luck.”

Ambani continued: “It’s a hard loss to swallow. While we understand that defeat is inevitable in football, this one stings particularly deeply.”

On the matter of the title race, Ambani stated: “There are still games to be played, and it’s premature to declare the title lost. We are focused on securing victories in our upcoming matches.”

Meanwhile, AFC Leopards chairman Boniface Ambani placed the blame for their derby defeat on poor officiating and accused the FKF of failing to address issues with the match officials.

“You can hold meetings across the country and spend millions, but you’ll never tackle the significant issues afflicting our football…poor officiating,” a furious Ambani remarked.

“You’ve turned referees into match fixers. Either deal with the problem in these leagues or get out. The issue spans from grassroots to the top leagues.”

This win positions Gor Mahia at the top of the standings with 61 points accrued from 18 wins, seven draws, and four losses, while AFC Leopards linger in second place with 55 points from 16 wins, seven draws, and six losses.

Gor Mahia’s remaining fixtures will see them face Kakamega Homeboyz, Kenya Police FC, Murang’a Seal, Mara Sugar, and conclude their season against Nairobi United.

AFC Leopards will be up against Ulinzi Stars, Mara Sugar, Kakamega Homeboyz, APS Bomet, and Bidco United in their upcoming matches.