Africa-Press – Kenya. AFC Leopards head coach Fred Ambani has struck a tone of calm defiance as the FKF Premier League title race tightens, insisting his charges still possess both the belief and ability to hunt down archrivals Gor Mahia.
With the season entering a decisive stretch, Ambani has framed the coming weeks not as a burden, but as an opportunity — a test of nerve, consistency and character.
Leopards approach this weekend’s fixture against Posta Rangers knowing that the margin for error has all but vanished.
Their 1-1 draw against Bandari FC at Mbaraki Stadium in Mombasa last week halted their momentum at a critical juncture, leaving them second on the table with 37 points — six adrift of Gor Mahia.
What once was a neck-and-neck duel separated only by goal difference has now evolved into a chase that demands precision and resolve. Ambani, however, remains unshaken.
“We know exactly what is required of us,” he said firmly. “If we win our remaining matches, we give ourselves a real chance. There is no shortcut, no magic formula. It’s about consistency and belief.”
The coach acknowledged the frustration of dropping points at the Coast but stressed perspective over panic.
“Of course, we wanted maximum points in Mombasa,” Ambani admitted. “But the league is not decided in one afternoon. What matters most is how we react. The players have responded well in training, and that gives me confidence.”
For weeks, Leopards had matched Gor Mahia stride for stride, the rivalry adding fresh intensity to the title conversation. Ambani believes that period proved Ingwe’s credentials.
“We were level for a long time because we earned it,” he said. “That shows the quality and mentality within this squad. The difference now is small details — concentration, decision-making, composure.”
“Six points is not an impossible gap. In football, momentum can shift very quickly. Our responsibility is to focus on ourselves and collect maximum points.”
The weight of history, however, looms large. AFC Leopards have not won the league trophy since 1998, a drought that has deepened the hunger among their supporters.
“Our fans have waited patiently,” Ambani said. “They carry the memories of past glory, and they want to see it again. We feel that desire, and it drives us.”
“Pressure is part of playing for this club. If you are afraid of expectation, you cannot succeed here. We embrace it.”
Turning to the immediate challenge, Ambani warned that Posta Rangers’ mid-table position offers no guarantees. The two sides will battle for honours at Nyayo Stadium on Sunday.
“They are organised and experienced,” he noted. “Teams fighting for points are always dangerous because they have their own battles.”
He emphasised sharpness in both boxes.
“We are creating opportunities,” Ambani explained. “But at this stage of the season, you must be ruthless. Titles are won by teams that convert chances and stay disciplined defensively.”
The message to his dressing room has been consistent. “I’ve told the players this is the moment to show who we are,” he revealed. “Anyone can talk about ambition. Now we must demonstrate it on the pitch.”
Across the touchline will be Posta Rangers head coach Collins Omondi, whose side sit 12th with 24 points and are equally motivated by necessity. “We respect AFC Leopards, but respect does not mean fear,” Omondi said. “We are going there to compete, not to admire them.”
Posta’s campaign has fluctuated, but Omondi believes his players possess the resilience to disrupt title ambitions.
“Our position on the table doesn’t reflect the effort these players have put in,” he said. “We have been competitive in many matches, and now we must turn performances into points.”
“Games like this can redefine a season. When you face a top team, you have a chance to make a statement.”
Omondi dismissed suggestions that his team would retreat defensively.
“We will be disciplined, yes,” he explained. “But we cannot spend the whole match chasing shadows. We must be brave when we have the ball.”
He believes transitions could be decisive. “AFC Leopards commit numbers forward,” he said. “If we are alert, there will be moments to exploit space.”
On the anticipated atmosphere, Omondi was pragmatic. “Their fans are passionate, and that energy can lift a team,” he acknowledged. “But our players must treat it as motivation, not intimidation.”
Preparation, he said, has centred on focus and clarity. “We have worked on shape, communication and decision-making,” Omondi revealed. “In matches of this magnitude, small errors are punished.”
He also stressed unity within his camp. “The dressing room is together,” he said. “The players understand that every point counts for us as well.”
Omondi concluded with measured optimism. “We are not underdogs in our own minds,” he stated. “If we execute our plan with discipline and courage, we can leave with a positive result.”
As the weekend fixture approaches, the narratives converge: one side chasing a long-awaited crown, the other fighting to stabilise its season. For AFC Leopards, it is about preserving belief and keeping Gor Mahia within reach. For Posta Rangers, it is about resilience and resistance.
