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AFC Leopards edged arch-rivals Gor Mahia 1–0 in the 98th Mashemeji Derby at Nyayo National Stadium on Sunday, December 7, 2025, earning a priceless victory in front of a charged and colourful crowd.

Julius Masaba was the hero of the day, striking in the 26th minute to hand Ingwe a memorable win against their traditional foes. His well-taken finish became the difference in a derby that, as always, delivered emotion, intensity, and fierce competition.

This year’s derby had already captured attention long before kick-off, having been postponed twice owing to CAF commitments and national events that clashed with earlier dates. But the rescheduling did little to dampen fan excitement. Supporters from both sides poured into Nyayo Stadium, eager to witness one of Kenya’s most iconic football showdowns.

Leopards head coach Fred Ambani had to dig deep into his tactical toolbox after a series of injuries forced several changes. Kayci Odhiambo’s knock in the 66th minute saw him replaced by Kennedy Owino, while earlier, Brian Wanyama and Emmanuel Lwangu had stepped in for Tyson Otieno and Brian Nyongesa. As the match wore on and the intensity escalated, Boniface Munyendo picked up a yellow card, prompting further switches with Victor Otieno and Kelly Madada entering the fray. The adjustments proved vital in keeping Leopards steady as Gor Mahia mounted sustained pressure in search of an equaliser.

Gor Mahia — missing key players Bryson Wangai and Lawrence Juma — pushed hard throughout the second half, but Leopards’ defensive line stood resolute, frustrating every attempt to level the score.

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For Ambani, the victory extended an extraordinary personal record. The Ingwe tactician has never tasted defeat in a Mashemeji Derby, either during his playing days or now as a coach — a streak that further cements his place in club folklore.

The win lifts AFC Leopards to sixth place on the FKF Premier League standings with 17 points from 10 matches, narrowing the gap to Gor Mahia to just two points. For Ingwe supporters, the triumph carries an extra layer of satisfaction, especially after both fixtures between the sides ended in draws last season. This time, Leopards walked away with full bragging rights and a renewed sense of momentum.