- The second leg of the Mashemeji Derby between Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards will be played on Monday, June 2nd, at the Raila Odinga Stadium in Homa Bay.
- AFC Leopards captain has stated that offensive play has been the key focus ahead of the clash.
- Miheso says it will not be an easy match, as both sides will be fighting for something significant.
Offensive play has been the primary focus for AFC Leopards as they prepare for the second leg of the highly anticipated Mashemeji Derby against arch-rivals Gor Mahia on Tuesday, June 2, at the Raila Odinga Stadium, team captain Clifton Miheso has revealed.
In an exclusive interview with the SportPesa Blog, Miheso explained that in the first leg, Leopards managed to hold Gor Mahia to a goalless draw thanks to their solid defensive performance.
However, he admitted their attacking game lacked sharpness an area they are determined to improve ahead of the high-stakes encounter.
In the first leg, we ended in a draw. One of the positives from that match was our defense, it was solid that day because we managed to contain all of Gor Mahia’s attacks. What didn’t work was our offensive play, and that’s the key area we are looking to improve this time.
I’m very hopeful that if we fix that and maintain our defensive discipline, we’ll get a good result in this match,” Miheso explained.
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AFC Leopards ready for the Mashemeji Derby
The skipper also emphasized that despite the team’s high morale and strong motivation, they are anticipating a tough contest.
Gor Mahia are in hot pursuit of the league title, while AFC Leopards are equally eager to assert dominance in the fixture and conclude their season on a high note.
As a team, we have prepared well. Our morale is always high going into the Mashemeji Derby. Everyone in the squad is really motivated. But we are expecting a tough match because Gor Mahia are very focused on chasing the title, so it won’t be as easy as some people are suggesting- it’s a high-stakes game. They are fighting for the title, while we are fighting for our pride, for the badge, and for our own objectives,” he added.
The former Gor Mahia player noted that, as captain, he is ready to give his all both on and off the pitch.
He also pledged to keep motivating his teammates, even though the squad is already showing impressive commitment.
“Personally, I will give my best if given the opportunity. As the captain, I will make sure I push the team forward. Right now, everyone in the squad is highly motivated, and as a leader, I don’t have to do much because the whole team is really committed and we are all pushing to bring out the best in each other,” Miheso affirmed
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He further called on Leopards supporters to turn out in large numbers and rally behind the team, promising they will leave everything on the pitch not only in this crucial derby but in the remaining fixtures as well.
I’m urging our loyal fans to continue supporting us. We truly appreciate their unwavering support throughout the season. This is our final push in the last three matches, including the upcoming Mashemeji Derby.
The players will give their best to give the fans something to smile about. Come and support us and for those at home, know that we are still representing you proudly,” he reiterated.
Currently sitting sixth on the log with 46 points, the Fred Ambani-coached side is aiming to surpass last season’s fifth-place finish, where they ended with 51 points. A win on Tuesday would be a step toward achieving that goal.
Meanwhile, under Zedekiah “Zico” Otieno, Gor Mahia are in pursuit of these three vital points in their title race against Kenya Police FC.
The two teams are separated by seven points, and a victory for Gor could narrow the gap to four -although Police need just one more win to be crowned champions.
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