AFC Leopards Rake In Sh7.3 Million From Mashemeji Derby Ticket Sales

AFC Leopards generated Sh7.3 million in ticket sales during the highly anticipated Mashemeji Derby against Gor Mahia, according to reports.

The match, played at Nyayo Stadium on Sunday evening, drew thousands of fans despite ending in a goalless draw.

The club implemented an online ticketing system, with sales running from Wednesday to Saturday.

AFC Leopards Chairman Dan Shikanda explained that the move was in line with recommendations from the CHAN 2024 Local Organising Committee, as Kenya prepares to host the continental tournament in August.

“We have a culture where some people attempt to enter without paying, but we will ensure we have enough security to prevent that. We are asking fans to support the team by purchasing tickets. Spending 300 or 500 shillings every six months is not too much,” Shikanda said.

The clash between AFC Leopards and Gor Mahia was an intense battle, with both teams seeking a crucial win to boost their Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Premier League title ambitions. Despite several scoring opportunities, neither side managed to find the back of the net.

Gor Mahia’s Sheriff Musa nearly broke the deadlock in the 21st minute, but his effort was denied by a heroic save from AFC Leopards goalkeeper Levis Opiyo Jr. Ingwe’s Bonfire Munyendo also came close in the 35th minute, but his shot narrowly missed the target in what was an action-packed first half.

The fixture marked the first league match to be played at the newly refurbished 30,000-seater Nyayo Stadium, which had been closed to league games for the past year.