Fred Ambani Reveals Blueprint Behind AFC Leopards’ Commanding Win Over Mathare United

Fred Ambani Reveals Blueprint Behind AFC Leopards’ Commanding Win Over Mathare United

Mark Kinyanjui 11:50 - 15.05.2025

AFC Leopards coach Fred Ambani has revealed how he was able to mastermind a 3-1 win over Mathare United on Wednesday.

AFC Leopards head coach Fred Ambani has opened up on how his side executed a near-flawless game plan to dismantle Mathare United 3-1 in a midweek FKF Premier League clash staged in Dandora on Wednesday.

Ingwe ran riot courtesy of goals from Kayci Odhiambo, Christopher Koloti, and Ronald Sichenje, while John Nyawir netted a late consolation for the Slum Boys.

Ambani’s men dominated the encounter from the onset. The breakthrough came in the 29th minute when Odhiambo coolly slotted home after a deflected free-kick landed kindly for him. Moments later, Koloti doubled the advantage, capping off a slick move orchestrated by Brian Wanyama and Sichenje.

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Leopards’ control extended into the second half, with Sichenje putting the result beyond doubt with a blistering solo goal—gliding past his marker and rifling the ball into the bottom corner. The team also observed a quiet tribute to their late Secretary General, Gilbert Andugu, following the opening goal.

Despite promising moments from Mathare’s Brian Ouru and Donald Ange, they failed to capitalize on their chances. Nyawir's stoppage-time strike merely served to reduce the deficit.

Ambani: It was a very tough game

Fred Ambani Reveals Blueprint Behind AFC Leopards’ Commanding Win Over Mathare United
AFC Leopards coach Fred Ambani. (Credit: AFC Leopards).

After the match, Ambani hailed his players' execution of the game plan and underscored the challenge posed by Mathare.

“I knew we were facing a tough opponent. They have been playing well and getting good results, and they have good players off the bench with great experience in the league,” Ambani said.

“We needed to exploit their weaknesses and exploit them with our strengths. We won but it was a very tough game.”

With the Leopards eyeing a strong finish to the season, the focus now shifts to their upcoming trip to the coast where they will face Bandari at the Mbaraki Stadium. 

Ambani admitted it will be a test of mental and physical resilience due to the heat and fatigue from travel—but remained adamant about the objective.

Ambani: What we must do to beat Bandari

Fred Ambani Reveals Blueprint Behind AFC Leopards’ Commanding Win Over Mathare United
AFC Leopards coach Fred Ambani is counting on Christopher Koloti for goals. Photo: AFC Leopards

“Both teams are traveling. Bandari are going back to Mombasa after playing away from home in midweek and we will also be going there. We will only see how we can exploit those margins," he noted.

“We will be playing under conditions we are not used to, such as the weather, but we have to instill the mentality into the players that nothing short of a win will be acceptable.”

With renewed belief and momentum, AFC Leopards will be looking to keep their winning run intact as they face yet another stern test in Bandari.