The highly anticipated return leg of the Mashemeji Derby between Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards, scheduled for Sunday, has been postponed due to lack of a suitable venue.
Originally set to be played at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, the match was called off after the Confederation of African Football (CAF) declared the stadium unavailable, as it undergoes final preparations for the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN), for which it is a designated venue.
In a statement, Football Kenya Federation (FKF) announced the postponement, citing CAF’s recommendation to shift the match to Ulinzi Sports Complex and play it behind closed doors to preserve infrastructure and maintain security standards.
However, Ulinzi Sports Complex management declined the request, citing internal safety and vandalism concerns.
“Following these developments, FKF held a meeting with representatives from both Gor Mahia FC and AFC Leopards SC on Friday, 9 May 2025. The two clubs have been formally informed of the situation and are aware of the reasons behind the decision,” FKF stated.
With no alternative venue currently available, the match has been postponed to a later date, to be announced in due course.
The derby remains a marquee fixture in the FKF Premier League calendar, particularly crucial for Gor Mahia, who sit second on 53 points—five behind leaders Kenya Police, who have played one more game.
