Following their 1-1 draw, AFC Leopards have now yet to beat Shabana in the league in four attempts since their promotion back to the top flight in 2023.
AFC Leopards vice-captain Kayci Odhiambo has spoken about the growing rivalry with Shabana FC following their dramatic 1-1 draw in a league clash at Kenyatta Stadium, Machakos.
Shabana took the lead in the 19th minute, with Kevin Omondi capitalizing on a deflected free-kick to put his side ahead. However, Leopards responded just before half-time, as Ovella Ochieng slotted home a well-crafted assist from Clifton Miheso to restore parity.
The match was an intense affair, with both sides creating opportunities but failing to find a decisive winner in the second half. The atmosphere inside the stadium was electric, with a packed crowd adding to the occasion.
Tensions ran high off the pitch as well. At one point, police had to intervene after agitated AFC Leopards fans attempted to confront a section of Shabana supporters, who were taunting them with celebratory dances in two of the east-side stands.
On the opposite VIP section, tempers flared in a separate altercation involving AFC Leopards chairman Dan Shikanda and the Chairman of Chairmen (CoC) Franklin ‘Kuka’ Imbenzi.
Despite the draw, frustration lingered among Leopards supporters, who are still waiting for their first league victory over Shabana since their rivals’ promotion back to the top flight in 2023.
Speaking after the match, Odhiambo remained defiant about Leopards’ ability to finally overcome Shabana in the near future.
“We will catch them. They always seem to find a way to get past us, but I know we will overcome them sooner or later,” he asserted.
The Kenyan international also expressed his gratitude to Ingwe fans for turning up in record numbers, especially since his return from a serious injury earlier this year against Kariobangi Sharks.
“I want to thank the AFC Leopards fans because they came in large numbers. Since my injury comeback, this is the first game I have seen them fill the stadium almost to the fullest. We hope they continue showing up like this.”
Meanwhile, the former Nakumatt FC defender remains optimistic about AFC Leopards’ chances of ending their 26-year wait for a league title.
Leopards currently sit fifth on the table with 36 points, nine points adrift of leaders Kenya Police. Tusker occupy second place with 44 points, while Gor Mahia are third with 42, holding a game in hand over Leopards.
Odhiambo believes his side is still in contention for the trophy.
“We are not giving up. Nine points is just three games, so it is still mathematically possible to win this title,” he stated confidently.
With the season approaching its climax, Leopards will need to be at their best to bridge the gap and challenge for the title. The team will have to capitalize on upcoming fixtures while hoping their rivals drop points along the way.
The club’s fans remain hopeful that their squad, led by experienced players like Odhiambo, can mount a serious title challenge. The team’s resilience in matches like the one against Shabana demonstrates their determination, but turning those hard-fought draws into victories will be crucial for their ambitions.
As the league intensifies, AFC Leopards will look to build momentum and improve their record against tough opponents like Shabana. The growing rivalry between the two sides adds another exciting dimension to the competition, ensuring more thrilling encounters in the future.
