The first leg of the Mashemeji derby between AFC Leopards and Gor Mahia has encountered yet another setback as the availability of a suitable stadium takes a new twist.
Recently, a poster released by both clubs indicated that the much-anticipated rivalry would be held at Nyayo International Stadium. However, this was later changed to Moi International Stadium, Kasarani.
The current situation, though, leaves fans questioning where the match will actually be played.
AFC Leopards chairman Dan Shikanda has now provided clarity on the matter, revealing that neither of the two major stadiums will be available as Kasarani is still under renovation.
Shikanda has expressed that he cannot accept the match being held at Dandora or Machakos Stadiums.
“We may not play at Kasarani and I can’t accept that the fixture to be staged at Dandora or Kenyatta, in Machakos because these venues cannot stage such a big fixture,” Shikanda told The Nation.
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In light of the stadium unavailability, Shikanda has called on the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) to explore alternative options, including holding the match in Uganda or Tanzania, where the national team, Harambee Stars, has recently played their international fixtures.
“How would you move the canopy at Kasarani which is a construction site? he asked.
“As of now, the game is scheduled for Sunday but there is no venue and I don’t know where we will play. Let FKF plan so that we can play in Tanzania or Uganda where Harambee Stars staged their matches.”
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Shikanda further stated that, as the home team, they are uncertain of the venue. If a suitable location is not confirmed soon, the match will have to be postponed once again and relocated to either Uganda or Tanzania.
“We can use Nyayo but that has to be decided by the CHAN Local Committee though it is highly unlikely. For now, as a home team, we have just to wait and if there is no convenient venue then the fixture will be postponed again or we go to Tanzania or Uganda,” he stated.
As the Mashemeji derby faces potential delays and the second leg looms on April 6, 2025, the possibility of playing behind closed doors is not a viable option for either club.
Mashemeji Derby date & venue
The first leg of the 2024/25 Mashemeji Derby will take place on 2 March 2025.
Gor Mahia won both legs of the derby last season and have only lost once in the last 16 meetings between the two sides.
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