Defending champions Gor Mahia is looking to move the eagerly awaited Mashemeji Derby against AFC Leopards to the Raila Odinga Stadium (ROSH) in Homa Bay County, scheduled for Monday, June 2nd.
The match was postponed because there was no suitable venue. CAF advised the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) not to use Moi International Sports Center Kasarani, which is being renovated for the upcoming CHAN tournament that Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania will co-host.
FKF Proposal to use Ulinzi Sports Complex was rejected byr Gor Mahia citing inadequate space for such a magnitude football match. However, K’Ogalo requested two weeks to find a suitable alternative venue.
Now, Gor Mahia has formally requested the FKF’s approval to host the match at Raila Odinga Stadium in Homa Bay. Although the venue is still being constructed, it is set to host the national Madaraka Day celebrations. The club believes the derby would be a great event to mark the reopening of the upgraded stadium.
The FKF will make the final decision on whether the stadium meets safety standards for this important match. This is especially significant after recent crowd issues at the Gor Mahia versus Shabana FC match at Gusii Stadium. Homa Bay, located near Lake Victoria, is a stronghold for Gor Mahia, and the club has a large following in the region.
The safety requirements focus on maintaining the field, having proper drainage systems to avoid water buildup, and ensuring the field is playable in different weather. Fire-detection systems, firefighting equipment, and clear emergency exits are also necessary for safe evacuation in an emergency. Security measures, including access control and personnel, are important to prevent unauthorized access and keep order.
The Mashemeji Derby is always a big deal, but this time it’s even more important. If Gor Mahia loses, Kenya Police FC will be crowned FKF Premier League champions. This makes the match essential for Gor Mahia, the record league champions. The first leg of the derby, held in March at Nyayo Stadium, ended in a goalless draw before a packed crowd.
