Why Ambani believes AFC Leopards are ripe to win FKFPL title this season
Reading Time: 2min | Sun. 14.12.25. | 19:53
Speaking after the FKFPL encounter at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, Ambani praised his players for another disciplined and spirited performance
AFC Leopards head coach Fred Ambani has expressed confidence that his side can mount a genuine Football Kenya Federation Premier League (FKFPL) title challenge this season following their goalless draw against Kenya Police on Saturday, 13 December.
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Speaking after their Saturday's barren draw against Kenya Police FC played at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, Ambani praised his players for another disciplined and spirited performance, saying it underlined Ingwe’s growing belief and consistency in recent weeks.
The result came barely a week after Leopards’ historic Mashemeji Derby victory over arch-rivals Gor Mahia, a run of form Ambani believes is evidence of steady progress within his squad.
“I feel the boys played well. We are showing great improvement from the game against Gor Mahia to this one. If we continue building on this, I believe we are capable of pushing for the title,” Ambani said.
The tactician, however, felt his side were unfortunate not to walk away with all three points, insisting Kenya Police were lucky to escape with a draw after Leopards squandered several promising chances.
“We are thankful we ended the tie with no major injuries. We had chances that we didn’t take, and I feel our opponents were lucky to come away with a point.
We had a late set piece where we could have won the game, but their defender recovered well to clear the danger and deny us,” he added.
The cagey encounter saw both sides create opportunities, but goalkeepers Humphrey Katasi of AFC Leopards and Job Ochieng of Kenya Police stood tall throughout the contest.
Katasi was particularly impressive, producing a superb diving save to deny Brian Musa’s long-range strike in the 70th minute before stopping Eric Zakayo from close range late on.
Police will also be indebted to defender David 'Cheche' Ochieng, who made a crucial clearance off the line to deny substitute Kelly Madada in the dying moments.
Ambani singled out Katasi for praise, lauding the custodian’s improvement and influence on the team.
“I must commend him. He has improved with every game and has been massive for us. He is doing his role for the team very well,” he said.
The draw propelled Kenya Police to the top of the FKF Premier League standings with 21 points from 11 matches, one point ahead of Gor Mahia, Kakamega Homeboyz and Posta Rangers.
AFC Leopards, meanwhile, remain sixth on 18 points from 12 matches but continue to show signs of a side growing in confidence and ambition as the season unfolds.
