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Why AFC Leopards boss Fredrick Ambani is not worried by Gor Mahia ahead of the 96th clash between both sides on Sunday.
AFC Leopards interim coach Fred Ambani has made it clear that he is not feeling the pressure ahead of his side’s highly anticipated Mashemeji Derby against arch-rivals Gor Mahia this Sunday at the Nyayo National Stadium.
This iconic fixture, one of the biggest in Kenyan football, has faced multiple delays due to stadium renovations and scheduling conflicts.
However, with the Confederation of African Football (CAF) approving Nyayo Stadium for international matches, the stage is finally set for this high-stakes encounter.
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Speaking at Dandora Stadium on Wednesday, Ambani, who took charge in December after the departure of former coach Tomas Trucha, explained how he has prepared his team for the showdown.
“As a coach, I will approach that game normally, but the fans view it as a huge game,” Ambani told Azam TV.
For him, the key factor will be ensuring his players are mentally prepared to handle the pressure that comes with such a major fixture.
“The game carries heavy expectations, so we have to prepare for that kind of pressure. They have a new coach, but we’ve been here for a while, so we’re mostly focusing on the mental aspect to ensure the players can cope with the demands of a large crowd.”
He acknowledged that some players who have never played in front of such an atmosphere might feel the nerves but reassured that the technical bench is doing everything to get them ready.
“I am sure some players who have not experienced that crowd before will be tense, but it’s our job to prepare them physically, mentally, and tactically. We will be ready.”
Having experienced the derby both as a player and now as a coach, Ambani dismissed any notion of feeling nervous.
“I do not fear this derby. I have been a part of it before, played in front of that crowd, and I know what to expect. I cannot say I am tense for this game.”
The Mashemeji Derby has faced two postponements this season due to venue challenges.
Originally scheduled for November 24, 2024, the fixture was delayed as both Nyayo Stadium and Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, were undergoing renovations ahead of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) and the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
A second attempt to stage the match on March 3, 2025, also fell through when the venues remained unavailable, frustrating fans and teams alike. These delays underscored the infrastructural challenges that continue to plague high-profile matches in Kenya.
Ambani, however, remains unfazed.
“It has only been getting postponed, but my players will be ready,” he assured.
He also had a message for the fans.
“I urge the supporters to turn up in large numbers and cheer for their teams. This is our home game, and we need to show up in full force.”
The clash arrives at a crucial juncture in the FKF Premier League season. Gor Mahia currently sits third on the table with 42 points, while AFC Leopards trails in fifth place with 36 points.
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