Ambani insists AFC Leopards still in title race despite Police whipping
By Joel Masibo, April 19, 2026AFC Leopards head coach Fred Ambani has remained optimistic about his side’s Football Kenya Federation Premier League title ambitions despite a heavy 3-0 defeat to Police FC on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at Nyayo National Stadium, a result that dealt a blow to their championship hopes.
The loss exposed defensive frailties for AFC Leopards, with the backline struggling to contain Police FC’s attacking threat throughout the match. However, Ambani defended his players after the final whistle, insisting that mistakes are part of the game and should not define the team’s campaign.
Ambani gives verdict
“The defence was an issue today, but these are things that happen in matches; you cannot crucify them. We have to keep encouraging them to give us points,” Ambani said.
The defeat comes at a critical stage of the season, where every point carries significant weight in the race for the title. Despite the setback, Ambani expressed confidence that his team can quickly regroup and refocus on their next major assignment, the highly anticipated Mashemeji Derby, scheduled for Sunday, April 26, 2026, at the Nyayo National Stadium, a fixture that Police FC head coach, Nicholas Muyoti has urged Leopards to focus on.
The coach emphasised that the upcoming clash will provide an opportunity for redemption, urging his players to shift their focus away from the disappointment and channel their energy into securing a positive result. Before the famous Mashemeji Derby, Gor Mahia will be seeking to extend their lead at the summit to five points when they host Bandari FC at Kasarani Stadium on Sunday, April 19, 2026. K’Ogalo lead the pack with 57 points, two above archrivals AFC Leopards.
Shifting focus
Ingwe head into the Derby heads up after edging Gor Mahia 1-0 in the reverse fixture staged at the same venue.
“We have to find ways of winning the Derby because that is what we are left with as our next option. The players should not dwell on today’s slip; there is always another day, and we are still in the title race.” Fred Ambani stated.
The Mashemeji Derby, featuring the two local fierce rivals, is widely regarded as one of the most significant fixtures in Kenyan football. A victory in that encounter could restore confidence within the Leopards’ camp and keep their title challenge alive.
While the defeat to Police FC highlighted areas that need urgent attention, particularly in defence, Ambani’s remarks underline a belief that the title race remains far from over. With crucial matches still ahead, AFC Leopards will be aiming to bounce back strongly and prove that their championship dreams are still within reach.