Gor Mahia tackle AFC Leopards in chase for continental Cup slot

A Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards fans greet during a past “Mashemeji “derby encounter at Afraha Stadium in Nakuru on January 28, 2018 [Kipsang Joseph, Standard]

AFC Leopards and Gor Mahia will renew their rivalry when they clash in the final of the FKF Cup on Sunday.

Football Kenya Federation confirmed the final will be played at Ruaraka Grounds, the home of Tusker FC, a change from the previously stated Utalii Grounds.

The last time the two giants met in the final of the knockout competition was in 2013 when AFC Leopards emerged 1-0 winners at Nyayo Stadium but Gor assistant coach Sammy Omollo is confident they will emerge victorious.

Omollo said their main agenda this season shifted to winning the FKF Cup and qualify for continental club football next season after Tusker FC grabbed the precious Caf Champions League ticket on Wednesday.

Apart from pocketing Sh2million from the title sponsors, the winner will also earn an automatic ticket to represent the country in the Caf Confederation Cup.

“We are Gor Mahia. To completely miss from any of the continental club tournaments will be a downgrade for the club that has been dominating in the local league for the better part of the past decade.”

“We know it will be a do-or-die duel with Leopards who have improved a lot this year but we are ready for them. We have to win to play in Caf next season,” Omollo said.

His AFC Leopards counterpart Tom Juma said they will be playing for bragging rights and look for motivation from the prize money to walk them through the remaining 10 FKF Premier League fixtures.