AFC Leopards’ captain issues bold rallying cry ahead of Mashemeji Derby
By Luke Oluoch, April 25, 2026AFC Leopards skipper Victor Omune has underscored the significance of the upcoming Mashemeji Derby, noting that it comes with much at stake.
The home team hosts Gor Mahia in a decisive top-of-the-table clash on Sunday, April 26, 2026, an encounter that the skipper believes is a massive test as the side looks for a rare season double over arch-rivals Gor Mahia.
Speaking ahead of the Sunday, April 26, 2026, meeting, Omune reckoned that their eyes are on their season targets, with a win against Gor coming in handy in getting the job done.
Lots at stake
“There is a lot at stake, making this meeting different. We have worked hard as a team to be where we are, and I believe what we have achieved this far is deserved. Mentally, I believe we are ready, and for us, we only have to win as we look to achieve our season targets,” he stated.
Omune further acknowledged that Ingwe has its sights on winning the game as a reward for its fans, who have been superb and supportive of the team even during moments of distressing results.
“We only have to win tomorrow. We owe our fans the victory and ourselves too. After losing 3-0 and still being applauded by the fans, it’s something that goes deep. I feel we owe it to the fans and to ourselves as we look to get our season targets achieved,” he added.
His remarks come after their rivals, Gor Mahia, also sounded the importance of the Sunday encounter.
Philemon on AFC meeting
K’Ogalo’s captain Philemon Otieno spoke on the importance of protecting K’Ogalo’s bragging rights and pride heading to the most-watched derby on home soil.
“As one of the senior-most players on the team, I have to encourage the team. I urge them to protect the bragging rights of our team,” he implored.
The versatile defender expressed optimism that the green and white army is ready to rise to the occasion and stamp their mark during the encounter.
“Playing against AFC always comes with a good feeling and is a motivation for us players in itself. It’s a game with stakes raised high, and for me, it is a big game, not only here but also across East Africa. We are ready as Gor Mahia to give a good show on Sunday,” he stated.
The two title-chasing clubs will be hoping to take the lead of proceedings in the charged title race with a win at Nyayo Stadium on Sunday, April 26, 2026.