AFC Leopards will host Gor Mahia on Sunday 22nd July at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani in what is the only league action set for this weekend.

 Gor Mahia have a nine-point lead at the summit of the SportPesa Premier League with four games in hand over second-placed Sofapaka (40) while AFC Leopards are fifth with 36 points having played 22 matches. However, AFC Leopards coach Rodolfo Zapata says this does not worry him heading into the derby.

Quality Players

“We are very ready.  A derby is won through team effort and I’m always positive.  I respect Gor Mahia, but we have a rich history and they need to respect it too. I also strongly believe in my players.  The difference between average and superior performance in any club always comes back to the quality of the players hired.  The Chairman has brought several young players and the target is to dominate the league in the near future,” Zapata tells KPL

“All of them (new signings) are potentially good players.  They however need time to adapt in a big team like AFC Leopards.  For this reason, we must be patient in the development process.  I need to work progressively and try not to confuse our youngster.” He adds.

The coach has also revealed the team could miss the services of five players ahead of the derby.

“Brian Marita, Dennis Sikhayi, Robinson Kamura, Saad Musa and Alex Oratamal couldn’t practice properly this week while our captain Duncan Otieno has 5 yellow cards and will miss the match.” He said.

Important match

Gor Mahia coach Dylan Kerr has also termed the match as “important” and urged his players to treat as such.

“The players are aware how important the derby is to the team and to the fans as well and they have to give it their all. Our opponents also know there are bragging rights in this one and I believe they are also looking to upset us. We will approach the match with the seriousness it deserves.” Kerr said.

Each VIP ticket for the match that kicks off at 3PM will cost Ksh 500 while a terrace ticket will be going for Ksh 200. The match will be live on K24.