AFC Leopards youngster Kelly Madada is a believer that Sunday’s Mashemeji Derby against Gor Mahia could land him potential suitors, even as he readies himself for a first outing in the marquee fixture.Madada, in a roller-coaster kind of season for AFC Leopards, has been among the better revelations for the side. He has become a mainstay in Fred Ambani’s starting team in recent months.”Felt better than scoring”: Kelly Madada provides joy on Ingwe full debutHaving already nailed a place in Ingwe’s starting eleven and even made a Harambee Stars debut – albeit in January’s invitational tourney Mapinduzi Cup – this weekend will offer him a feeling he has not experienced before.That is a place on the field against their long-time arch-nemesis Gor Mahia for one of two annual bragging rights.“It feels good to be involved in such a game,” the attacking midfielder told Azam TV this week. “It’s the game many wish to get a chance to play in.”Madada’s fearless play is replicated in his approach ahead of the game – the Shanderema High School alumnus opting to bypass the chills associated with it to make a bigger statement.“These kind of games offer such a brilliant platform … everyone will be watching,” he said. “So on my side, if I get a chance to play, I will just go out because you never know who is watching.”Kauli ya wachezaji wa @AFCLeopards kwenye maandalizi ya #MashemejiDerby @Officialfkfpl #FootballKE #fkfpremierleague #TwendeNyayo #Jazanyayo #AzamTvBurudaniKwaWote pic.twitter.com/kueTyQb1Iy— AzamTV Kenya (@AzamTVKenya) March 26, 2025 The fixture has been a long time coming, having to be postponed twice before a final date and venue were settled upon a few days ago.AFC Leopards last beat K’Ogalo in May 2023, a victory that put an end to their 15-game winless run in the derby.’I am not scared of Mashemeji Derby’ – AFC Leopards coach Fred AmbaniThe last two times the sides have met, Gor Mahia have emerged victorious, even edging out Ingwe last time out with a man sent off.“The pressure is obviously on the fans but it’s upon us to try and contain it. That’s our work,” Leopards skipper Clifton Miheso said ahead of Sunday’s game at Nyayo Stadium. “Every game we play is always pressurized, but we will enter that pressure and play our own game.”Kick-off is at 1600 EAT.##NAJAVA_MECA_8805298##
