Nairobi News

SportsWhat's Hot

Gor, Leopards clash in Mashemeji derby


Bitter rivals Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards will renew their rivalry on Sunday evening at the Safaricom Stadium, Kasarani in what should be a highly charged Kenyan Premier League encounter.

And contrary to the last three seasons, when Gor Mahia have headed into the Mashemeji derby as firm favourites, the odds have been heavily reduced with the clash evenly poised.

K’Ogalo, by virtue of being the champions, can’t be underrated while at Ingwe have a spring in their step.

Last season, K’Ogalo were crowned champions unbeaten while Leopards struggled to find their footing.

But unlikely last season when they steamrolled all before them, K’Ogalo juggernaut has suddenly stalled while Leopards have seen a recent upturn in fortunes.

WINLESS STREAK

Gor, under 47 year old Scot, Frank Nuttall, has been struggling in nearly all departments. In particular, their midfield has been lacking the dynamism and creativity it is known for. Their defence too has been shown clear signs of frailty. Gor are still winless in three league matches, having drawn each one of them.

Ingwe, on the other hand are purring. A draw and two wins on the bounce has taken to the top of the log coming to the weekend matches.

And with 49-year-old Belgian, Ivan Minnaert, having only been appointed the coach, Leopards will relish the opportunity to inflict pain on the stuttering Gor.

Minnaert, perhaps with an ace up his sleeve said this about the fixture: “Nothing special. It’s a game like any other. We have no pressure because we are playing the champions. So, the pressure is on them. If we win, if we score, the celebration is going to be the same.”

His statement, no doubt, exerts pressure on Gor’s Nuttall who will definitely go all out to get his first victory of the season.