Kenya’s most iconic football clash, the Mashemeji Derby, has been postponed again due to the unavailability of a suitable venue.
The highly-anticipated fixture between AFC Leopards and Gor Mahia, initially set to take place on Sunday, has been called off for the second time this season.
The derby, which was scheduled to be held at Nyayo National Stadium, will not take place after the home side, AFC Leopards, failed to secure approval to use the facility.
Ingwe’s efforts to gain clearance were unsuccessful, as the stadium remains unavailable due to ongoing renovations ahead of the 2024 Africa Nations Championships (CHAN).
According to sources within AFC Leopards, club chairman Dan Shikanda had remained hopeful of receiving a positive response from the government regarding the stadium’s availability.
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However, discussions reached an impasse, forcing the postponement of Kenya’s biggest football derby yet again.
This marks the second time the fixture has been delayed this season, with the first postponement also linked to Kenya’s preparations for CHAN.
Nyayo National Stadium, along with other key sporting venues in the country, is undergoing renovations to ensure compliance with CAF requirements ahead of the continental tournament set for August.
The Mashemeji Derby is regarded as a high-risk fixture due to the long-standing rivalry between the two clubs, both of which boast a massive fan base that has fueled their competition since the 1960s.
AFC Leopards, currently fifth in the FKF Premier League table with 34 points, had been eager to take on their arch-rivals to boost their title ambitions.
Gor Mahia, on the other hand, sit third with 36 points, just five points behind league leaders Kenya Police.
The postponement further complicates the fixture schedule for both teams, who now have to wait for the league’s organizing committee to reschedule the match.
While the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) is yet to confirm a new date for the fixture, speculation is rife that it could be pushed to a later stage in the season, depending on the completion of stadium renovations.
Fans of both clubs have expressed frustration over the repeated postponements, with many calling on FKF and relevant authorities to find an alternative venue to ensure the match takes place soon.
