'I have never lost to Gor Mahia!' - AFC Leopards boss Fred Ambani exudes confidence ahead of Mashemeji Derby

AFC Leopards coach Fred Ambani. ©AFC Leopards.

'I have never lost to Gor Mahia!' - AFC Leopards boss Fred Ambani exudes confidence ahead of Mashemeji Derby

Mark Kinyanjui 17:50 - 28.03.2025

Fred Ambani counting on his fine record of 'never losing to Gor Mahia as a player to help his charges out ahead of Sunday's Mashemeji Derby.

AFC Leopards boss Fred Ambani has expressed his confidence ahead of the highly anticipated Mashemeji Derby against Gor Mahia at the Nyayo National Stadium on Sunday.

With Leopards currently in a title race and Gor Mahia looking to recover from their sluggish start to the season, the stakes are high. 

Ambani, who took over as head coach in December following the departure of Tomas Trucha, believes his team is well-prepared for the challenge.

The former AFC Leopards forward was part of the 1998 squad that won the club’s last league title. 

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Ambani joined the team in 1997 from Rivatex FC and, during his two-year stay, never lost a single match. Following his tenure, he moved to Oserian Fastac FC. Now, he hopes to extend that winning charm to Sunday’s crucial encounter.

“I have played the derby myself before, and I have never lost. These games are about mental preparation,” Ambani asserted to the media before the clash

Understanding the pressure that comes with such a high-stakes fixture, Ambani has focused on ensuring his players—especially the younger ones—are mentally prepared for the occasion.

“It should be a normal game for the players, although it is a big one for the fans. I have rallied them and asked the experienced players, including my captain, to help the young players stay calm,” he explained.

A victory over Gor Mahia, according to Ambani, would serve as a statement of intent in Leopards’ pursuit of the league title.

“If we beat Gor Mahia, the league title will be a realistic target. They also want it, but if we defeat them, our chances will increase. I know it is possible, but it will not be easy.”

Ambani also emphasised the importance of fostering a strong team spirit and winning mentality within the squad.

“In the past, we had good players and a strong desire to win. That is what I want to instill in this team. My brother Bonface used to tell opponents that we had already won the game before it even kicked off. That’s the kind of confidence and mentality I want my players to have.”

Despite struggling with attacking issues—partly due to injuries—Ambani remains optimistic that his team’s improved finishing will make a difference on Sunday.

“We have had issues in attack, but we have been working on our finishing, and I hope it will pay off in the derby.”

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