Mashemeji Derby Heads to Homa Bay

Kenya’s biggest football rivalry is about to make history. The 97th edition of the Mashemeji Derby, pitting record FKF Premier League champions Gor Mahia against arch-rivals AFC Leopards, will be staged at the newly refurbished Raila Odinga Stadium in Homa Bay on Monday, June 2nd, with kick-off slated for 3:00 PM.

🟢 | CONFIRMED

Our #MashemejiDerby match against AFC Leopards to be played on 2nd June, 2025 in Homa Bay as from 3pm. #Sirkal | #SportPesaNaGor pic.twitter.com/MrTlgVs1Wb

— GOR MAHIA FC (@OfficialGMFC) May 23, 2025

Originally scheduled for May 11th, the fixture was postponed due to the unavailability of suitable venues in Nairobi, as both Kasarani and Nyayo Stadiums undergo renovations ahead of the upcoming African Nations Championship (CHAN) tournament.

In a bold and unprecedented move, Gor Mahia opted for the Homa Bay venue after rejecting FKF’s proposal to host the match at Ulinzi Sports Complex, citing concerns over capacity and infrastructure. The decision not only revives the derby’s intensity but also introduces a historic first: a league Mashemeji Derby outside the capital in recent times.

The derby carries heavy stakes beyond bragging rights. Gor Mahia currently trails league leaders Kenya Police FC by seven points with just three matches remaining. Victory against Leopards is essential if Sirkal is to keep their slim title hopes alive, while also praying for a slip from Police FC in their upcoming fixture against Shabana FC.

Adding to the drama, Gor Mahia recently appointed a new coaching duo club legend Zedekiah “Zico” Otieno and Michael Nam following the departure of Sinisa Mihic. The pair is tasked with steering the team to a record 22nd league title and a fourth consecutive championship.

Their last meeting on March 30th at Nyayo Stadium ended in a tense goalless draw, reflecting the fierce competitiveness that defines this fixture. Historically, Gor Mahia holds 33 derby victories, while AFC Leopards boasts 28, with 35 matches ending in stalemates.

As the derby heads to Homa Bay, fans from both sides are gearing up for what promises to be an unforgettable chapter in Kenyan football history. Whether it turns out to be a decisive title lifeline for Gor Mahia or a moment of pride for AFC Leopards, one thing is certain — the lakeside town is about to witness football fever like never before.