AFC Leopards reclaim derby glory in the 98th showdown

An electric atmosphere and a history-making result

Sunday, December 7, 2025 was a day etched in Kenyan football folklore: the 98th edition of the Mashemeji Derby delivered all the fireworks fans crave drama, tension, and a moment of brilliance that tilted the derby balance. The venue? A packed Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi, drenched in the colours of the rival fan-bases, buzzing with chants, flags and anticipation. Across 90 minutes, one strike was all it took to settle years of rivalry.

In the end, it was the blue of Leopards that triumphed. A well-timed strike by Julius Masaba in the 25th minute handed Ingwe a 1–0 win their first Mashemeji victory since 2023, ending a long drought of disappointment against their arch-rivals.

According to Gor Mahia fans this defeat was beacuse they were still mourning the death of their patron Raila Amolo Odinga and they have promised to repay in second leg.

The goal that broke the silence and the script

The defining moment came just 25 minutes in, when a fluid sequence of passes from the Leopards midfield culminated in a cross from the right flank into the Gor box. The ball ricocheted off a defender, landing at the feet of Masaba who composed himself and fired the decisive shot home.

It was more than just a goal it was Masaba’s first in a Mashemeji Derby, forever sealing his name in derby lore. For fans, it was cathartic; for Gor, a hard pill to swallow. This goal dashed K’Ogalo’s hopes of overtaking the table, and instead delivered a blow to their momentum.

Autumn before the storm the context leading into derby day

The build-up to Derby Sunday had drama of its own. Initially scheduled for November 29, the match was postponed after organizers struggled to secure a venue both Nyayo and the alternative stadium booked for a national event, leading to uncertainty and frustration among fans. But beyond logistics, the match carried weight for both sides. For Gor Mahia, it was a chance to bounce back after a shock league defeat coach Charles Akonnor had promised a ruthless response.
For AFC Leopards, it was a golden opportunity to end a three-match winless run and silence critics. The club’s captain and players spoke openly about the derby’s importance to restore pride and belief. Fans also lamented of the captains performance stating that he is in disciplined and is not performing well

The aftermath — more than just bragging rights

Key takeaways from a grand old rivalry rejuvenated

Lesson Why it Matters Details decide derby day

A single moment of sharpness a cheeky cross, a deft finish was enough to shift the balance. In high-pressure games, teams must stay alert.Psychology and momentum matter.Leopards entered under pressure to break their winless streak. That hunger can outweigh form or odds.

Never under-estimate the underdog.

Despite recent form, Gor Mahia couldn’t afford complacency. Their defeat shows derby legacy doesn’t guarantee results. Fans fuel the fire. A packed stadium, roaring support derby atmosphere can lift teams emotionally. That energy translates on the pitch.

What’s next a season reset or new ambitions?

For AFC Leopards, this win could be more than a morale boost — it might mark a turnaround. With belief restored and fans behind them, they have shown they’re not just fighting for survival, but can challenge for more.

For Gor Mahia, the result is a reality check. Consistency, mental fortitude and sharper finishing will now be under scrutiny. They must regroup, refocus — and importantly, deliver on expectations.

As for the fans brace yourselves. If Mashemeji 98 was a measure, the 99th edition promises even more. Rivalry renewed, pride restored and with every chapter, the Mashemeji Saga only grows richer.