Gor Mahia Star Slams 'Low-Profile' Shabana Clash Compared to Mashemeji Derby Against AFC Leopards

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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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.

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.

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.