Unleashing the Fiercest Rivalry in Kenyan Football: The Mashemeji Derby The Mashemeji derby, previously known as the Nairobi or Ingo-Dala de...
Unleashing the Fiercest Rivalry in Kenyan Football: The Mashemeji Derby
The History of the Mashemeji Derby
The oldest rivalry in Kenyan football history, the Mashemeji Derby was formed between AFC Leopards and Gor Mahia to provide opportunities for socialization and to forge the ethnic identities of the Abaluhya and Luo ethnic groups in Nairobi City. These two teams have a huge following and have changed the political terrain of Kenya due to their popularity.
A Bitter Rivalry
The two teams have been bitter rivals since their first meeting on May 5, 1968, which was won by Gor Mahia 1-0 at the Nairobi City Stadium. In recent years, Gor Mahia has dominated the rivalry with 31 victories, while AFC Leopards have won 27 matches and there have been 34 draws. Despite Gor Mahia boasting the FKF Premier League top scorer, Benson Omalla, they failed to score in their last meeting against AFC Leopards, which ended in a 0-0 draw.
Glory Days
Gor Mahia is the most successful club in Kenya with 19 Premier League titles, while AFC Leopards is third with 12 titles. In the 1980s, AFC Leopards was more successful than their rivals, winning six Premier League titles, but their success declined in the 1990s, with only two titles in 1992 and 1998. On the other hand, Gor Mahia has continued to dominate in the 21st century, winning seven titles.
Fan Trouble
The Gor Mahia fanbase is predominantly Luo, while the AFC Leopards fanbase is mostly Luhya. The intense passion of the fans during the Mashemeji Derby matches adds to the intensity of the rivalry. Both teams have been involved in hooliganism, but Gor Mahia fans are often on the wrong side of the law more frequently. In 2011, a FKF Cup quarter-final game was abandoned due to violent protests from AFC Leopards fans.
The Mashemeji Derby is a game that showcases the intense rivalry between two of the biggest teams in Kenyan football. With deep-rooted cultural ties and a rich history, this match is a must-see for all football fans. The Mashemeji Derby truly represents the passion, pride, and identity of the fans of AFC Leopards and Gor Mahia.
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