AFC Leopards eye redemption against Shabana

AFC Leopards' Kelly Madada in action against KCB/AFCLEOPARDS

 Nyayo Stadium will be electric on Sunday as AFC Leopards take on Shabana in a fixture that could shape the title race.

Both clubs sit on 40 points, separated only by goal difference, and the pressure is mounting.

Leopards are coming off a heartbreaking 1-0 defeat to KCB on Thursday. The loss left fans restless and the squad determined to make amends.

Coach Fred Ambani acknowledges the disappointment but insists the team is ready to channel it into a response.

“We must analyse our performance against KCB and correct the areas that held us back. This is a new challenge, and the players are ready to respond,” he said.

The coach emphasised the need for mental toughness.

“Shabana have been consistent this season. We have to maintain our structure, move the ball efficiently, and take advantage of the opportunities we create. Every player must understand their role and execute it without hesitation,” Ambani added.

Ambani believes experience and composure will be decisive. “Mistakes are costly at this stage. The players know the stakes, and we need to stay sharp from first whistle to last.”

He also called on the fans to play their part. “Playing at Nyayo with our supporters behind us gives the team confidence. Their energy lifts the players, and it can turn small moments into game-changing opportunities,” he said.

With the title race tightening, Ambani is keen to ensure focus remains absolute. “Points are crucial now. The players understand the stakes, and we aim to deliver. This is a match we must treat with the utmost seriousness,” he added.

Shabana, meanwhile, are riding high after a narrow 1-0 victory over Mathare United midweek. Coach Peter Okidi insists his team will approach the match with precision and discipline. “We know the demands of Nyayo, but the team has a clear plan for the match,” he said.

“Our win against Mathare United showed the players are motivated. We want to carry that belief forward,” Okidi added.

“The team knows their roles. Execution has to be sharp, from defence to attack,” he said. “We will control the ball, seize key moments, and stay organised at all times.”

Gor Mahia, the league leaders on 46 points, take on Mathare United on Saturday at 4 pm. Coach Charles Akonnor wants focus.

“Mathare are organised. We must approach the match with intensity from start to finish,” he said. “Our goal is to maintain top spot. Every match matters, and preparation is key.”

Mathare United, 11th on the table, are eager to bounce back.

Coach John Kamau said, “We respect Gor Mahia, but our players are ready. We want to compete for every opportunity. Structure is everything. Press smart, defend as a unit, and minimise errors. That gives us a chance.”

Elsewhere, Kenya Police host Bandari at Police Sacco Stadium at 2 pm, and Murang’a Seal take on Posta Rangers at St Sebastian Park in Murang'a at 3 pm. Both games could shake up mid-table standings.