AFC Leopards tactician Trucha speaks on preparedness ahead of his 1st Mashemeji Derby
AFC Leopards head coach Tomas Trucha is set to experience his first Mashemeji Derby from the touchline as the historic fixture reaches its 95th meeting at Nyayo Stadium.
The two oldest clubs in the country, AFC Leopards and Gor Mahia, will reignite their longstanding rivalry on Sunday, April 21.
AFC Leopards- Gor Mahia ranks
Gor Mahia currently lead the league standings and is on course for their 21st title while AFC leopards are eighth. 
Trucha expressed confidence in his team's mood and motivation leading up to the match, emphasizing the significance of the derby not only in Kenya but also across Africa.
He eagerly anticipates his debut in overseeing the team during this iconic fixture.
“Everybody is prepared, the mood in the camp is good which is a motivation by itself for this game. It is a big game not only in Kenya but also in Africa.
"For me this is my first time I oversee the team in the Mashemeji Derby, I am looking forward to it and I will enjoy,” he told AFC Leopards media.
According to Trucha, preparation for the derby is multifaceted, requiring tactical, mental, and physical readiness.
He insists that in derbies, there are no clear favorites, and both teams approach the match fully prepared for the challenge.
“Both teams are planning and training for each other .It is all about tactical, mental and physical preparation. We take the match as a challenge because we will be facing the league champions who are currently the league leaders.
"For us it’s a challenge to succeed and prepare something special for them. Remember derbies never have favorites, there’s no underdog . Its always a fight to know which team comes out the best so both teams will come to the match ready to give it all,” he added.
Trucha, who made some changes in his lineup recently, hopes to have all his players available for the derby clash.
AFC Leopards concerns
Key players like Victor Omune, Mousa Oundo, and Kayci Odhiambo missed the clash against Posta Rangers due to injury or illness. 
Since their first encounter on May 5, 1968, AFC Leopards and Gor Mahia have maintained a fierce rivalry. Both clubs boast impressive records in the league, with Gor Mahia securing the Kenyan Premier League title a record 20 times, while AFC Leopards have claimed 12 league titles of their own.
