Former Gor Mahia, AFC Leopards goalkeeper on why form does not matter in Mashemeji Derby
Reading Time: 2min | Sun. 07.12.25. | 12:41
Having played for both clubs, Kasaya disclosed that he is not backing either of his former teams and only wishes for the best team to win.
Former Harambee Stars goalkeeper Wycliffe Kasaya, who played for both Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards, has explained why form does not matter in the Mashemeji Derby.
Kasaya turned out for K’Ogalo in 2012 before joining Leopards two years later, making him one of the few players to have donned both the green and blue striped colours.
As it stands, K’Ogalo are in slightly better form than Leopards, having won three of their last five matches and six of their nine this season, while Leopards have won only three games this season and are currently on a three-match winless streak.
Speaking to Mozzart Sport, the 37-year-old disclosed why all that does not count in the Sunday 7 December derby.
“The derby will not be won by the team that is currently in form or the team that has quality players. That counts for only a small percentage in the derby.
I remember my first derby in 2012 while turning out for Gor Mahia; we drew the match while in the relegation zone against AFC who were second, before beating them in the second leg,” said Kasaya.
“When I crossed over to Leopards, we beat Gor Mahia 3-1 in 2014 at a time when I think they had a good team,” he added.
The former Sony Sugar FC custodian went on to reveal the characteristics of a team that will win the derby.
“The derby is won by the team that shows up for the full 90 minutes. The team that wins individual duels and gives more than 100 percent on the pitch,” he stated.
Nevertheless, the former defunct Red Berets FC goalkeeper analyzed key areas that might decide the game.
“Gor Mahia have a good defence that has conceded in only three games and a lethal wing which I believe they will utilise. Leopards’ success, I suppose, will depend on how they shut down K’Ogalo’s winners and improve their otherwise blunt attack,” he remarked.
Having played for both clubs, Kasaya disclosed that he is not backing either of his former teams and only wishes for the best team to win.
