• FOOTBALL

• Frank Rotich 4 days ago

Kenya Police and AFC Leopards chase first win as they clash at Nyayo Stadium

Kenya Police FC and AFC Leopards will be under pressure to turn their opening-day draws into victories when they clash in a Sportpesa League tie at Nyayo National Stadium this afternoon.

Both teams dropped points in the opening matches, leaving Tuesday’s encounter as an early test of their ambitions in the new campaign and an opportunity to build momentum.

Kenya Police were held to a 1-1 draw by Migori Youth in Awendo, while AFC Leopards settled for a goalless draw against Bandari at Police Sacco Grounds.

The Law Enforcers will, however, draw confidence from their most recent league meeting with Ingwe, having secured a commanding 3-0 victory at Nyayo Stadium in the second leg of last season.

That result remains Kenya Police’s only league win over Leopards since gaining promotion to the top flight in 2021, highlighting the challenge facing the police-sponsored side as they seek to improve their record against one of the country’s traditional football giants.

Kenya Police have strengthened their squad ahead of the season, with Estone Esiye, Oliver Majaka, Brian Mzee, Elvis Rupia and Victor Haki among the players expected to bolster their campaign.

Leopards have also added fresh faces, including Adama Kante, Kevin Otiala, Taddeo Lwanga and Musa Ceesay, as they look to mount a stronger challenge this season.

For Ingwe, the immediate task is to translate their preparations into results, with head coach Fred Ambani insisting that his team has learned from last season’s heavy defeat to the Law Enforcers.

Ambani says the technical bench has reviewed the weaknesses exposed in that encounter and developed a plan to help his side secure maximum points.

The tactician has also called on the club’s supporters to continue backing the team after the disappointing draw against Bandari, promising a stronger response in the capital.

With both sides eager to record their first victory, the midfield battle, defensive discipline and ability to convert chances could prove decisive in a fixture that carries significant early-season importance.

Kenya Police will be hoping to build on last season’s emphatic victory, while Leopards will be determined to avoid another setback against the Law Enforcers.

Kick-off is scheduled for 3pm at Nyayo National Stadium.