AFC Leopards have shown a remarkable turnaround in form following their shocking 4-2 defeat to FC Talanta earlier this month. The loss, which marked Talanta’s first-ever victory over Leopards, was a low point for the team, compounded by off-pitch struggles as players reportedly went on a go-slow due to unpaid allowances dating back to December.
The match began promisingly for Leopards, with Boniface Munyendo giving them an early lead in the 11th minute. However, defensive lapses allowed Talanta to seize control, with Kevin Odongo and Brian Kipruto scoring before halftime. The second half further exposed Leopards’ vulnerabilities, with Emmanuel Osoro’s audacious goal scored by pushing the ball into the net with his backside after rounding the goalkeeper becoming a symbol of their struggles. A late goal by Victor Otieno provided little consolation as the damage had already been done.
In the aftermath of the defeat, interim coach Fred Ambani took on the challenge of rebuilding the team’s confidence and morale. Since then, Leopards have bounced back with a resounding 4-2 victory over KCB and a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Murang’a Seal. Ambani has attributed this resurgence to his approach as a mentor and motivator, describing his role as that of a “father figure” to the players.
“When players are mentally affected, preparation becomes haphazard,” Ambani explained. “I have had to prepare my players mentally to see through the bad times, just like you train your child to persevere through difficult moments.”
Ambani’s efforts have not only stabilized the team but also inspired them to believe in their potential. He highlighted the team’s resilience in the match against KCB, a title-contending side, as evidence of their determination and quality. According to Ambani, this performance demonstrated the team’s ability to recover and compete at a high level despite facing adversity.
The interim coach, who took charge in November 2024, has overseen a notable improvement in the team’s performance, losing just once in seven matches. Under his guidance, Leopards have displayed renewed energy and determination, rekindling hopes of a strong finish to the season. While the team’s last league triumph came in 1998, Ambani remains optimistic about their chances of closing the gap on league leaders Kenya Police and Tusker FC.
“Anything is possible. If we win both those games, we will have closed the gap,” Ambani said. “We need God’s intervention, but once we win, we will have closed the gap.”
Leopards’ passionate fan base has been buoyed by the team’s recent resurgence, which has reignited dreams of a return to the glory days. Ambani’s leadership and the players’ mental fortitude have been key to this revival, providing a foundation for consistent performances moving forward. While the path to silverware remains challenging, the team’s renewed spirit and determination offer hope for a brighter future.
As the season progresses, Leopards will need to maintain their momentum and translate their recent improvements into sustained success. For now, Ambani’s steady hand and the players’ resilience are driving the team’s push to reclaim their place among the league’s elite and, perhaps, to dream of lifting a trophy once again.
