- Gor Mahia vs AFC Leopards Player Ratings – here we take a look at how the players performed in the 98th edition of the rivalry.
- AFC Leopards won the match 0–1 on Sunday, December 7, in a game staged at the Nyayo National Stadium.
- Julius Masaba, who was named Man of the Match, scored the decisive goal.
Julius Masaba netted the all-important goal as AFC Leopards managed to edge out Gor Mahia in the first leg of the fierce Mashemeji Derby 25/26.
The decisive moment came from a deflected ball by Bryne Omondi, following Tyson Otieno’s strike that was redirected towards Masaba, who capitalized to score his first-ever goal in the Mashemeji Derby staged at a packed Nyayo National Stadium on Sunday, December 7.
Here, we assess how all 11 players from each side performed as AFC Leopards coach Fred Ambani unveiled a surprising lineup featuring fresh faces absent from the previous nine matches, who rose to the occasion and outclassed Ghanaian head coach Charles Akonnor’s side.
ALSO READ: Masaba strike stuns Gor Mahia as AFC Leopards claim Mashemeji Derby bragging rights in 98th edition
Gor Mahia vs AFC Leopards: Mashemeji Derby Player Ratings
Gor Mahia Player Ratings
Bryne Omondi – 4/10
Despite parrying the ball that led to the goal, Omondi was rarely tested thereafter and remained largely untroubled. He occasionally helped relieve pressure from a sometimes-flustered defense.
Michael Kibwage – 4/10
Not his usual dominant self, Kibwage was quiet in a match mostly contested in midfield.
He organized his area solidly after the early concession and, aside from allowing Masaba space to dribble in the first minute, committed no further notable errors.
Sylvester Owino – 3.5/10
Struggled in containment, failing to clear James Kinyanjui’s dangerous cross into the box a lapse that led to the goal and was earlier bypassed by Masaba.
A difficult day under persistent pressure from Leopards’ attackers.
Bryton Onyona – 4/10
A tough debut for the rising star. Tasked with containing Kinyanjui, he was repeatedly beaten for pace but showed resilience to stay focused throughout the match.
ALSO READ: Gor Mahia vs AFC Leopards: Mashemeji Derby head-to-head record & past meetings
Paul Ochuga – 3/10
Endured a challenging outing on the right wing, struggling to track Julius Masaba.
Often caught sprinting forward, he left gaps that Ingwe exploited.
Substituted at halftime for Ben Stanley, the winning goal originated from his side as he lost track of Masaba.
Fidel Origa – 3/10
Overrun in a midfield that Leopards targeted and controlled. He fought to anchor the defensive midfield before being replaced by Alpha Onyango.
Enock Morrison – 4/10
The Ghanaian international, who had vowed to claim three points, was overwhelmed in midfield, allowing Ingwe to advance freely without facing significant resistance.
Austin Odhiambo – 5/10
Marked tightly by an Ingwe defense that identified him as K’Ogalo’s playmaker. Isolated for large periods, he still crafted a few chances and displayed captain’s maturity.
Ebenezer Adu-Kwaw – 4.5/10
Attempted ambitious long-range efforts that missed the mark. A forgettable performance led to his substitution in the second half for Patrick Esombe.
ALSO READ:Key Gor Mahia player involved in accident ahead of Mashemeji Derby
Felix Oluoch – 4/10
Like his fellow attackers, he found opportunities scarce against a disciplined Leopards defense that contained him effectively all match.
Shariff Musa – 5.5/10
Perhaps Gor’s brightest spark, making dangerous runs down the left and delivering promising crosses, though none connected.
Missed a late chance to equalize, sending his effort over the bar, but overall had a positive outing.
AFC Leopards Player Ratings
Humphrey Katasi – 5/10
Largely untested as most opponents’ attempts sailed high, but remained alert and composed whenever called upon, managing defensive pressure calmly.
Randi Bakari – 5.5/10
Solid on the right flank, neutralizing the threats of Ebenezer Adu-Kwaw and Felix Oluoch with consistency.
Kayci Odhiambo – 5.7/10
Composed during his time on the pitch before being substituted for Kennedy Owino.
Made intelligent runs, delivered precise passes, and sent in an excellent cross to Masaba early on that nearly produced a goal.
Samuel Semo – 5/10
A surprise inclusion who delivered a steady performance on the left wing, containing Shariff Musa’s runs and helping maintain defensive stability.
Brian Ojok – 5.5/10
Another unexpected selection who proved reliable in defense during his minutes before making way for Emmanuel Lwangu.
Musa Oundo – 6/10
As the defensive midfielder, he excelled- making impactful runs, dropping back effectively, and dominating by winning second balls, which frustrated Gor throughout.
Boniface Munyendo – 6/10
Impressively controlled the midfield, stifling Gor’s advances and combining well with Masaba on the left. Booked during the match and later substituted for Kelly Madada.
Tyson Otieno – 6/10
In his first appearance for Ingwe this season, he outshone his brother Austin Odhiambo- his deflected shot creating the goal.
A surprise weapon for Ambani, he troubled Gor’s defense until an injury led to his substitution for Brian Wanyama.
James Kinyanjui – 7/10
In his Mashemeji Derby debut, the offseason signing proved why he’s become integral to the side.
He tormented Onyona with his pace and delivered threatening crosses, including the assist for the goal.
Julius Masaba – 8/10
The match-winner and Man of the Match.
Typically, a substitute, he seized his starting opportunity, tormenting Gor with his dribbling and capping his performance with the decisive goal.
Victor Omune – 6/10
Missed a clear header that could have doubled Ingwe’s lead, but constantly threatened with his movement and held the line well before being replaced by Victor Otieno.
