AFC Leopards coach Francis Ambani has set his sights on topping Gor Mahia in the coming Mashemeji derby against Gor Mahia.

Ambani is set to lead the Leopards against their arch-rivals in a rescheduled Mashemeji derby on Sunday, March 2, 2025, .

Speaking after Leopards‘ 0-0 draw against Sofapaka on Wednesday, February 20, Ambani said he is under no illusion of what will be at stake ahead of the much-anticipated clash.

The former Leopards striker revealed what informed his substitute in the clash against Sofapaka in a match he termed his side only ran out of time.

Ambani, who registered his disappointment with the outcome of the clash, noted that he initiated changes to try and rejuvenate his midfield against Sofapaka.

“We had issues in the midfield and we were struggling in initial phases. We opted to bring in Bandi to inject more skills. We also brought in Frederick Alushula who is experienced despite being new to the team. It changed a lot in the game but I feel we ran out of time,” Ambani said on his changes.

On his approach to the derby, the trainer opted to play his cards close to his chest, saying he only looking to get the results in the game.

Ingwe head into the clash looking to close the gap between them and Gor.

Derby day

Fourth-placed Ingwe is ranked two points behind Gor with Ambani expressing his sentiments of how crucial a win could be for the team’s progress.

”Every coach looks to win his games and I am no exception. I know Gor Mahia will come up with their game plan. I am looking for a win as it will be my first game in the derby. A win will be a massive result. I go back to see what we can do and see how we can get a result that will give something to the fans.” he said.

Statistics

Leopards will be eager to make a case in the derby buoyed by their home fans.

 In the previous meeting pitting the two, Ingwe has managed only a single win in the past three seasons of the KPL league. The team’s last win came in May 2023 in a 2-1 win.

The result came after a barren draw in the first-leg meeting.

Before the 2023 season, Leopards slumped to a 1-0 defeat before recording a 1-1 draw in the return leg of 2022 season.

Gor Mahia asserted their dominance in the 2024 season winning both ties of the clash with a 2-0  and 1-0 scoreline.