AFC Leopards are riding a wave of confidence after a sensational 1-0 victory over rivals Gor Mahia in the Mashemeji Derby at Nyayo Stadium two weeks ago.
But coach Fred Ambani knows the job is far from done. On Thursday, Leopards take on Ulinzi Stars at the Ulinzi Sports Complex in a Kenyan Premier League clash that could shape the season for both sides. Leopards sit eighth on the table with 18 points, while Ulinzi Stars linger in 14th place with just 13 points.
Leopards come into this match with mixed emotions. The triumph against Gor Mahia was a morale booster. Fans celebrated the derby win as if they had won a title. But the goalless draw against reigning champions Police FC in their last outing reminded Ambani that consistency is key.
“Every point counts at this stage of the season,” Ambani said. “We have to stay sharp, focused, and disciplined. The derby win gave confidence, but the league is a marathon, not a sprint.”
Ulinzi Stars, by contrast, are under pressure. The army side has struggled to find rhythm this season and sits perilously close to the relegation zone. Stephen Ocholla, the coach, knows his players must fight for every ball.
“We can’t afford mistakes,” Ocholla said. “Leopards are strong, confident, and well-organised. But we have our plans, and our players are ready to give their all.”
The key battle could be in midfield. Leopards rely on a disciplined defensive setup that transitions quickly into attack.
Ambani has drilled his squad to exploit gaps with fast counters. “We need to be clinical in possession,” he explained. “Ulinzi will press hard, but our forwards are ready to punish any mistakes.”
For Ulinzi Stars, cohesion is the priority. Ocholla has been emphasising teamwork and communication. “Mental strength is crucial,” he said. “We need to stay alert for 90 minutes. Any lapse could cost us dearly against Leopards.”
Fans will be treated to a tense, high-stakes encounter. The Ulinzi Sports Complex, which is known for its charged atmosphere, and the army team will leverage home support. Ambani is unfazed.
“Crowd pressure is part of the game,” he said. “Our focus is on executing our tactics and keeping our shape.”
Injuries appear manageable for both sides. Leopards have a few minor knocks, but Ambani confirmed that rotation has kept players fresh.
Ocholla admitted some players are nursing minor issues but insisted the squad is ready to adapt. “We’ve prepared for every scenario,” he said.
Historically, encounters between these two sides are tight, physical, and tactical. Goals often come from set-pieces or moments of individual brilliance. Ambani stressed that concentration will be key, while Ocholla noted that exploiting small mistakes could turn the tide.
The stakes are high. For Leopards, back-to-back positive results would cement momentum and signal intent to push up the table. For Ulinzi Stars, a win is critical to lift morale and inch away from the relegation scrap. Both teams know that a single lapse could be costly, and that every point matters in the title and survival battles.
by TONY MBALLA
