AFC Leopards have written to Sports Kenya requesting that they be granted the chance to host the Mashemeji Derby against Gor Mahia at Nyayo Stadium.
Initially, the derby, set for Sunday, March 2, 2025, was set to be held at the Moi International Stadium in Kasarani, but that is not possible because of the ongoing renovation works.
AFC Leopards’ chair, Dan Shikanda, has now revealed that, being the home team, they have requested the government to give them permission to use Nyayo Stadium for the highly anticipated game.
“We are expecting a positive response from the government regarding Nyayo Stadium’s availability. I urge Leopards fans to turn up in large numbers to support the team once Nyayo is confirmed to host the biggest fixture in the country.
“We cannot play at any venue other than Kasarani or Nyayo. Since Kasarani remains unavailable due to the ongoing canopy installation, we’ve written to Sports Kenya for Nyayo Stadium. If all goes well, the derby will kick off at Nyayo this Sunday at 4:00 PM,” Shikanda said as quoted by a local publication.
Concerns
The uncertainty around the venue, days before the game, has raised concerns among soccer stakeholders and even the fans.
Former Gor Mahia national treasurer Sally Bolo, responding to Shikanda’s concerns, said it is not possible to hold the derby outside the country. Ideas of having the Mashemeji Derby played in either Tanzania or Uganda were floated, given that the Harambee Stars have hosted their matches in Kampala in the recent past.
“Dr. Dan Shikanda, AFC Leopards chairman and FKF NEC Member—Nairobi, time for solutions, not just concerns, I beg you. I agree that the Mashemeji Derby is a high-risk match that deserves a proper venue like Kasarani or Nyayo, not smaller stadiums.
“But suggesting it be played in Uganda or Tanzania? Absolutely not. As an FKF NEC member, you are now part of the decision-making table, so instead of passing the problem, let’s see the solutions. Where do we play on Sunday?” Bolo asked in a statement on X on Wednesday, February 26, 2025.
Meanwhile, AFC Leopards will be looking for a win against K’Ogalo after losing the two encounters last season.
