Mashemeji Derby: The goal-scoring legends in Kenyan football rivalry

© Imago

FOOTBALL Mashemeji Derby: The goal-scoring legends in Kenyan football rivalry

Festus Chuma 07:30 - 04.10.2023

The Mashemeji Derby unfolds its historic tale, with Gor Mahia's Onyango and Sserunkuma leading as top scorers, defining rivalry glory.

There's nothing quite like a Mashemeji Derby, where the fierce rivalry between Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards comes alive on the pitch. As the two Kenyan football giants prepare to face off once again at Moi International Sports Centre Kasarani on Saturday, it is not just about the battle for supremacy; it is a historical duel that has seen legends etch their names in the annals of Kenyan football.

The Mashemeji Derby, born in 1968 when AFC Leopards and Gor Mahia first locked horns, has been a canvas for prolific goal-scorers to showcase their talent. In the rich tapestry of this iconic clash, two names stand tall as the leading goal-getters – Sammy 'Jogoo' Onyango and Dan Sserunkuma, both donning the green of Gor Mahia.

Since that fateful day in 1968, these two stalwarts have each found the back of the net six times, becoming synonymous with Derby glory for the Green Army. Onyango and Sserunkuma's goal-scoring prowess has left an indelible mark on the history of the Mashemeji Derby, making them the go-to names when the stakes are high.

AFC Leopards, not to be outdone, boast their own legends in the goal-scoring department. Wilberforce Mulumba leads the charge with four Derby goals to his name, a testament to his impact when facing the arch-rivals. In a closely-knit list of three-goal scorers, names like Abdul Baraza, Dan Odie, and Mike Baraza shine for Ingwe, underlining their crucial contributions in Derby encounters.

As the clubs lock horns for the 97th time, Gor Mahia holds a slight edge over AFC Leopards. The battlefield has witnessed over thirty draws, each one adding a new chapter to the storied rivalry. In terms of goals, Gor Mahia's tally outshines that of AFC Leopards, emphasizing their prowess in front of the net.

The upcoming clash presents AFC Leopards with a chance to secure their second consecutive Derby win against Gor Mahia. The memories of their 2-1 victory last season are still fresh – a game that saw Victor Omune convert from the penalty spot, only for Austin Odhiambo to restore parity before Maxwell Otieno secured the win just before halftime.

Delving deeper into the Derby archives, names like Laban Otieno, Maurice Ojwang, and Peter Dawo for Gor Mahia, and David Asibwa for AFC Leopards, have etched their names as three-time goal-scorers. The Derby isn't just about the stars; it's about these unsung heroes who have left an impact in crucial moments.

While the legends lead the charts, a myriad of two-goal heroes grace the Derby history. For Gor Mahia, the likes of Jacques Tuyisenge, Nicholas Kipkirui, and Gnamien Yikpe share this distinction. AFC Leopards counters with a formidable list including Aggrey Lukoye, John Joseph Masiga, and Fred Ambani, each contributing significantly to the goal tally.

In the grand tapestry of the Mashemeji Derby, goals are not just statistics; they are the echoes of passion, pride, and history. Each goal is a chapter in the unfolding narrative of this storied rivalry, a testament to the players who dared to make a difference when it mattered the most.

As the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani  gears up for another clash of titans, the Mashemeji Derby promises more than just goals; it pledges to add another glorious chapter to the folklore of Kenyan football.