Mashemeji Derby: When Gor Mahia Responded to Juju Claims by AFC Leopards’ Levis Opiyo
- Gor Mahia have previously distanced themselves from claims of using black magic during the highly-charged Mashemeji derbies
- The statement came after AFC Leopards' goalkeeper Levis Opiyo claimed that an unnamed staff member in Gor Mahia uses dirty tricks on him
- The juju comments resurfaced on the eve of the first meeting between the two clubs this season after two postponements
Gor Mahia were forced to issue a response after AFC Leopards' goalkeeper Levis Opiyo claimed the club uses dark magic (juju) during Mashemeji derbies.
The two biggest clubs on the land will lock horns this afternoon at the Nyayo National Stadium in a high-stakes encounter.
Source: Twitter
Opiyo ruffled feathers last year when he claimed that an unnamed Gor Mahia steward uses juju on him during the games involving two of Kenya's most popular clubs.
AFC Leopards player alleges use of black magic
Opiyo, a former K'Ogalo player, alleged that he usually feels weak when he takes to the pitch during the derby.
"This guy was a friend of mine when I was at Gor. He always makes sure he greets me before the game. I felt weak during warm-up with our stewards confirming that something was up," said Opiyo on Tiki Taka Show.
"It’s like he’s playing with me outside the field—with black magic. Whenever I play in a derby, I feel weak, and it only happens in those games."
Opiyo's record vs Gor Mahia
Since switching sides, Opiyo has faced his former employer five times, winning only once, losing twice, and drawing twice. He has often been criticised for his performance during the derby.
Gor Mahia respond to juju claims
Gor Mahia rubbished the juju claims, with the club vice-chairman, Francis Wasuna, slamming Opiyo for unprofessionalism.
"We do not do that here. I find the topic of the use of black magic to win matches trivial. If someone else believes in it and its powers, that is his or her choice," he told Mozzart Sport.
"I would advise him to secure the services of a serious and registered agent who will help handle such matters."
When is the Mashemeji derby?
Opiyo, who claimed to have learned a way to beat the alleged use of black magic, promised to inspire Ingwe to victory when the two sides meet.
The first instalment of the derby will take place today, March 30, after being postponed twice due to the lack of a proper stadium to host the big game. Nyayo Stadium has since been renovated and approved to host the game.
The second leg was initially slated for next weekend but the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) is yet to confirm whether we will have the game in back-to-back weekends.
Source: UGC
AFC Leopards vs Gor Mahia preview
The two clubs are still within touching distance of the Premier League title this season. The Green Army, who are the defending champions, have 42 points, five less than leaders Tusker, who have played two games more. The Brewers beat Bidco United 1-0 on Saturday.
Leopards, meanwhile, have 36 points. A win against their bitter rivals will take them to eight points behind Tusker with a game in hand.
"I am not scared of the Mashemeji derby. It is a match I have played in before, and I know what’s at stake and I’ve prepared well for it," said Ingwe head coach Fred Ambani on Friday.
"For the longest period, we have been prepared. We were always prepared, even if it was initially and then again postponed. Given the size of the crowd, I have no doubt that the players are psychologically ready. Perhaps we will put a lot of effort into preparing the players who have never participated in such a derby."
Gor Mahia ace strikes referee with ball
TUKO.co.ke has also previously reported that Gor Mahia goalkeeper Gad Mathews struck a referee with a ferocious shot.
Mathews inadvertently hit the match official with the ball during the second leg of their Champions League encounter against Al Ahly in Cairo on September 21, 2024.
K'Ogalo lost the fixture 3-0, 6-0 on aggregate, to exit the competition in the preliminary rounds to the record African champions.
Proofreading by Jackson Otukho, copy editor at TUKO.co.ke.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
