Kenya’s two most supported clubs, Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards faced off with the K’Ogalo aiming to stretch their lead at the summit of the Kenyan Premier League table, but Ingwe came out on top 2-1.
The much anticipated Mashemeji derby finally took centre stage on Sunday at the Nyayo stadium in Nairobi.
Kenya’s two most supported clubs, Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards faced off with the K’Ogalo aiming to stretch their lead at the summit of the Kenyan Premier League table, but Ingwe came out on top 2-1.
It was the first derby for Ugandan compatriots Shafik Kagimu and Patrick Kaddu, who have been part of Johnathan Mckinstry’s side for four months now.
All three goals were scored in the first half, with Ingwe taking the lead in the 33rd minute through Victor Omune before Austin Odhiambo levelled for the hosts six minutes later.
AFC Leopards then responded through Maxwell Otieno, who restored the lead at the stroke of halftime.
Unlike Shafik Kagimu, forward Patrick Kaddu later came on with ten minutes to go and could have levelled the game, but his header off a free kick went over the bar in added time.
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Ingwe might have been second best on the day but there were a number of factors that contributed to their first win against K’Ogalo since 2016
Forward Peter Lwasa is the other Ugandan at the club who started the game he is in his second season with the side.
Former Cranes coach Jonathan Mckinstry wasn't happy about the result but was satisfied with his side's performance.
"Very dissapointed, we created alot of chances today, we missed a penaltycr and creating chances doesnt get you three points, its about putting the ball into the net," He noted.
"And AFC Leopards did that to earn the three points so we move on to next week against Tusker."
The win took AFC Leopards to seventh on 45 points after 30 games played, while Gor Mahia moved to the second spot on 63 points, one behind table leaders Tusker FC.
The match attracted a capacity crowd and saw Kenya’s top political brass in attendance, including President William Samoi Ruto.
Mashemeji Derby Result: Gor Mahia 1 – 2 AFC Leopards.