Charles Akonnor reveals how Gor Mahia floored AFC Leopards in Mashemeji derby

During the 99th edition of the derby held at Nyayo National Stadium, Gor Mahia secured victory thanks to a last-minute strike from their skipper Alpha Onyango, claiming the honours and establishing a six-point advantage over their competitors in the 18-team standings.

This triumph allowed Gor Mahia to settle the score from their initial encounter loss, where AFC Leopards had triumphed by an identical scoreline.

Before this highly anticipated clash, Gor Mahia boasted 17 victories, seven stalemates, and four losses, whereas AFC, led by manager and ex-player Fred Ambani, recorded 16 triumphs, seven ties, and five setbacks.

‘I salute my boys for the win’

“We thoroughly analysed the opposition, reflecting on our earlier performance in the opening leg, identifying their strengths precisely, and thus devised our approach accordingly,” Akonnor shared with Flashscore post-match.

“During the opening period, it was clear we held the upper hand, dictating proceedings, leaving them unable to find any rhythm, which aligned perfectly with our intentions. The team executed admirably, and I commend them for that display.

“Beyond the result itself, it was the execution, the confidence, as we generated numerous opportunities early on without converting, yet they persisted with determination, ultimately earning the decisive strike.”

Akonnor continued: “All our preparations translated seamlessly onto the pitch. The players followed our blueprint to the letter. I am immensely proud of their effort, their play was outstanding.”

‘Gor Mahia goal came from nowhere’

AFC Leopards’ manager Fred Ambani expressed frustration over the manner in which his team surrendered the decisive score to their adversaries.

“Our loss stems from misfortune, considering the nature of that concession, it was not something Gor Mahia built or anticipated, it appeared out of the blue, so I chalk it up to an off day for us,” Ambani remarked.

“Post-interval, we took charge, overpowering Gor Mahia, but fortune favoured them with that breakthrough. Kelly (Madada) added the missing spark we needed initially, though I maintain bad luck cost us dearly.”

Ambani further stated: “This setback stings, accepting defeat is inherent to the sport, yet this particular one cuts deep.”

Regarding the championship contention, Ambani noted: “Plenty of fixtures remain, so it would be premature to declare the race over. Our focus is on securing points from our remaining games, given the opportunities ahead.”

AFC Leopards’ president Boniface Ambani attributed their loss in the derby to substandard refereeing, criticising FKF for failing to address the issue with the officials.

“You organise consultations across all regions nationwide, investing vast sums, yet you ignore the primary issue plaguing our sport, inadequate match control,” Ambani vented.

“You have corrupted your officials into game manipulators. Address this core problem from the lowest tiers up to the elite divisions, or step aside. The issue is shoddy arbitration throughout.”

The success positioned Gor Mahia atop with 61 points from 18 wins, seven draws, and four losses, as AFC Leopards held second place on 55 points from 16 wins, seven draws, and six losses.

Gor Mahia’s concluding five outings face Kakamega Homeboyz, Kenya Police FC, Murang’a Seal, Mara Sugar, wrapping up versus Nairobi United.

AFC Leopards must tackle Ulinzi Stars, Mara Sugar, Kakamega Homeboyz, APS Bomet, and Bidco United in their final stretch.