AFC Leopards captain looking to end three-match winless streak against Gor Mahia
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Reading Time: 3min | Thu. 04.12.25. | 21:03
Omune said the team views the derby as a decisive turning point. He expressed both urgency and belief in their ability to respond
AFC Leopards captain Victor Omune has stressed the magnitude of winning Sunday’s Mashemeji Derby against Gor Mahia at Nyayo Stadium, describing the clash as a perfect chance for Ingwe to revive their form after three matches without victory.
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Gor, who host the derby, are also seeking redemption after a shock 4–1 defeat to APS Bomet, while Ingwe’s 1–1 draw with Kariobangi Sharks prolonged their own winless stretch.
As he previewed the highly anticipated showdown, Omune said the team views the derby as a decisive turning point. He expressed both urgency and belief in their ability to respond.
“It’s a very important game for us, especially since we haven’t won in the last three matches. We have to bounce back on Sunday, and we also know our fans truly deserve this win.
There is no better gift to them than delivering in the derby. Our plan is to use this game to turn the season around,” he stated during an interview at the team’s Karen training base.
He went on to offer insight into the mood within the Leopards camp, noting that the week’s sessions have been marked by high energy and commitment. Omune said the group has shown renewed focus, fully aware of the weight of the occasion.
“The team is in good shape, and everyone is fully psyched for the derby. This is a big match, and naturally, the players are motivated and ready to give their best.”
Discussing training intensity, he highlighted how internal competition has pushed players to raise their standards. Omune described a squad where even those yet to feature this season are fighting hard for selection.
“We believe it is time to return to winning ways, and there is no better stage for that than the derby. All eyes will be on this game, and the motivation in camp is visible.
Even those who have not featured since the season began have been training at their highest level, which makes team selection difficult because everyone looks sharp.”
He also spoke about the enormous pressure and spectacle surrounding the fixture, painting a picture of the atmosphere players will walk into on Sunday.
“This is not an ordinary match. The stadium will be full, people around the world will be watching, and every player must step up and show their best.”
Turning to Gor Mahia’s strong start to the season, Omune acknowledged their form but made it clear that Leopards are determined to disrupt it. “Credit to them, they have started the season strongly, but our job is to ensure that their good run does not continue against us.”
Reflecting on the postponement of the match, he offered reassurance that the change in schedule created no setback. Omune said the delay instead allowed for additional tactical refinement.
“We were ready for the derby even before the postponement. Now that we are finally here, we are once again prepared for the match at Nyayo Stadium.
The postponement did not affect our plans; if anything, it gave us more time to prepare, and I believe we are good to go.”
Looking beyond the derby, Omune concluded by discussing the club’s broader ambitions and the long-standing pursuit of a league title last secured in 1998. He identified the key shortcoming they must address to mount a serious challenge.
“We are close to competing for the league title. Even in the standings, we are not far off. Our main challenge has been consistency, and that is what we are working on.
Once we perfect that, I believe we will be ready to fight for the championship.”
Kickoff is scheduled for 3:00 PM.
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