Trucha will be overseeing his first ever Mashemeji derby as AFC Leopards coach.
As the anticipation builds for the 95th edition of Kenya's premier football spectacle, the Mashemeji Derby, AFC Leopards' head coach, Tomas Trucha, is gearing up for his maiden appearance in this highly-anticipated clash against arch-rivals Gor Mahia.
The match is set to take place this Sunday at Nyayo National Stadium, with kick-off scheduled for 3:00 pm.
In a recent interview with the club's media, Trucha expressed his excitement and readiness for the upcoming derby, emphasizing the significance of this match not only within Kenya but across the African continent.
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“Everybody is prepared, and the mood in the camp is good, which is a motivation by itself for this game," Trucha shared.
"It is a big game not only in Kenya but also in Africa. For me, this is my first time overseeing the team in the Mashemeji Derby, and I am looking forward to it. I will enjoy the experience."
When asked about his preparations and analysis of Sunday's opponents, Trucha highlighted the tactical, mental, and physical aspects of the game, stressing the importance of thorough preparation for such a high-stakes encounter.
“Both teams are planning and training for each other. It is all about tactical, mental, and physical preparation," Trucha explained. "We take the match as a challenge because we will be facing the league champions, who are currently the league leaders.
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“For us, it's a challenge to succeed and prepare something special for them. Remember, derbies never have favorites; there's no underdog.
"It's always a fight to see which team comes out on top, so both teams will come to the match ready to give it their all."
Acknowledging the unwavering support from AFC Leopards' passionate fanbase, Trucha expressed his gratitude and called upon the supporters to turn up in large numbers to create a vibrant atmosphere at Nyayo Stadium.
“To our dedicated AFC Leopards fans, thank you so much for turning up in numbers for our away match in Machakos.
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We felt more at home than the home team," Trucha said. "I believe on Sunday, you will show up more than our opponents. Let us paint Nyayo Stadium blue and white.
“We expect a big crowd for the derby because I also anticipate our rival fans to turn up in numbers for this much-awaited clash."
As the stage is set for another thrilling chapter in the storied rivalry between AFC Leopards and Gor Mahia, all eyes will be on Nyayo Stadium this Sunday as football fans across Kenya eagerly await the outcome of this iconic encounter.