Gor Mahia’s Austin Odhiambo has hailed Mashemeji Derby against AFC Leopards terming Shabana as incomparable.
Gor Mahia midfielder Austin Odhiambo has downplayed their fixture against Shabana, dubbed the Nyanza Derby, terming it as just another match.
Instead, the Gor Mahia star hailed the Mashemeji Derby against AFC Leopards as a more high-pressure fixture.
This came ahead of their clash against Shabana on Sunday at the Gusii Stadium, which Gor Mahia won 1-0 in a chaos-infested match.
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Rising Stars forward Lawrence Okoth, who has been dubbed the new Michael Olunga due to their similar playing styles, has dedicated his maiden AFCON U20 goal to the Harambee Stars captain.
Odhiambo Downplays Nyanza Derby Hype
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Austin Odhiambo contests with Shabana players in a past FKF Premier League fixture. (Photo Courtesy).
Speaking ahead of the clash, Odhiambo likened the Nyanza Derby to the Mashemeji Derby, saying it lacked the same intensity, pressure, and appeal to fans.
“To us, it’s a normal game. It’s more important to the fans, but to me, I feel more pressure playing in the derby (Mashemeji) instead of Gusii (Shabana),” said Odhiambo in an interview with the Gor Mahia media team in the build-up to their clash vs Shabana.
Mashemeji Derby Holds More Significance
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Gor Mahia’s Austin Odhiambo during a previous FKF Premier League fixture between AFC Leopards and Gor Mahia.
The midfielder proceeded to stress the importance of the Mashemeji Derby compared to the Nyanza Derby, not just to the players but even to the fans.
“I feel the Mashemeji Derby has way more pressure, and it is something that our fans cherish more than the Nyanza Derby,” he noted.
The midfielder, however, emphasized that their approach to the Shabana fixture remained just as vigilant.
“I don’t mean we won’t push ourselves against Shabana. I think it’s a game that fans have hyped up, and that’s why it seems huge, but in real sense, it’s just a game like any other,” said Odhiambo.
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The Kenyan striker looks to have just over two weeks left before he starts looking for a new club as his current team is reportedly not interested in retaining his services.
Ultimately, Odhiambo and Co. went on to win 1-0 against Shabana courtesy of a Sylvester Owino header.
The midfielder and his teammates now turn their attention to their highly anticipated clash against AFC Leopards on Sunday at the Kasarani Stadium.
