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AFC Leopards' Opiyo seeks redemption, while Gor Mahia's Omondi guards his debut—Mashemeji Derby anticipates a thrilling goalkeeper showdown at Kasarani.
As the fervor builds and the footballing frenzy reaches its peak, the stage is set for the clash of the titans in the 97th edition of the Mashemeji Derby between perennial rivals Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards.
Among the many narratives that weave through the tapestry of this historic encounter, one aspect that demands attention is the showdown between the goalposts, where the custodians of the net will play a pivotal role.
Let us delve into the anticipated clash of gloves and reflexes that will unfold at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani on Saturday, October 7.
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07:30 - 04.10.2023
FOOTBALL Mashemeji Derby: The goal-scoring legends in Kenyan football rivalry
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Levis Opiyo
Levis Opiyo, the custodian of AFC Leopards' goal who was once in the books of Gor Mahia, is a name etched in the memories of the Ingwe faithful.
It was Opiyo who stood tall in the previous Mashemeji Derby, a match that marked the end of a seven-year winless streak for AFC Leopards against their bitter rivals. That historic encounter, played at Nyayo Stadium, saw Opiyo's remarkable performance as he thwarted Gor Mahia's relentless attacks.
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This season, Opiyo missed the initial two matches but has since been a stalwart between the goalposts for AFC Leopards. In his last three outings, he has conceded just three goals, showcasing his resilience and determination to protect his team's net.
The 28-year-old shot-stopper is no stranger to pressure. In the previous season, he impressed with a staggering 16 clean sheets, a testament to his shot-stopping abilities and composure under fire. Opiyo's experience and knack for making crucial saves will undoubtedly make him a key figure to watch as the derby unfolds.
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13:04 - 04.10.2023
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With AFC Leopards' head coach, Tom Juma, showing confidence in Opiyo, it is clear that the goalkeeper will bear the weight of expectations.
On the bench, Maxwell Miulili awaits his opportunity, to serve as the second goalkeeper for the team. Notably, Humphrey Katasi, who joined the side at the start of the season, is currently nursing an injury, further solidifying Opiyo's pivotal role in the upcoming clash.
Kevin Omondi
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11:16 - 05.10.2023
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On the opposite end of the pitch, Gor Mahia boasts a new guardian of their goal in the form of Kevin Omondi. Having joined the club from Sofapaka at the start of the season, Omondi has quickly established himself as a formidable presence between the posts.
In the four matches he has started for Gor Mahia, Omondi has displayed exceptional shot-stopping abilities and a keen sense of positioning. His arrival has seen him claim the starting position, relegating Caleb Otieno to the bench. While Otieno started in the first match of the season, his relative inexperience at this level has led to Omondi taking the reins as the primary goalkeeper.
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Gad Mathews, the most experienced goalkeeper in the squad, remains on the road to recovery after undergoing an operation. He might return in goal for Gor Mahia in the derby after resuming training with the club last week.
Omondi's agility and quick reflexes will be crucial in thwarting AFC Leopards' offensive threats. As a newcomer to the team, he will be eager to prove his mettle on one of the biggest stages in Kenyan football.
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10:00 - 04.10.2023
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Shabana coach Sammy Okoth is still aiming higher despite not winning any of his side’s opening five league matches
As the countdown to the 97th meeting between these eternal rivals continues, the spotlight will undoubtedly shine on Levis Opiyo and Kevin Omondi. Both goalkeepers carry the hopes and dreams of their respective clubs into this high-stakes clash.
Will Opiyo once again be the hero for AFC Leopards, or will Omondi emerge as the savior for Gor Mahia? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain—the Mashemeji Derby promises to be a spectacle where these two goalkeepers will play pivotal roles in determining the outcome.
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12:45 - 04.10.2023
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The chairman of Muhoroni Youth FC seeks divine help ahead of the clash with KCB, adding a spiritual twist that adds intrigue to this crucial encounter.
The Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, will be the stage for this titanic battle of goalkeepers, and fans of both teams eagerly await the showdown.
In a derby known for its passion, intensity, and drama, it is the goalkeepers who often find themselves in the spotlight, and on matchday, all eyes will be on the duo as they aim to write their own chapters in the storied history of the Mashemeji Derby.
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