Coach Ambani explains why Police FC duel is a must-win for AFC Leopards
By Luke Oluoch, April 10, 2026AFC Leopards coach Fred Ambani has rallied his team for the next clash against defending champions Kenya Police as the title-chasing side ramps up their chase of the league in the 2025 season.
The former KPL giants are currently locked in a fierce two-horse race with Gor Mahia, with fewer than seven games remaining.
Speaking while talking up the secrets of AFC Leopards’ fine run in the season, on Friday, April 10, 2026, Ambani explained that the duel against the defending champions is another hurdle they will have to get past to justify their title prospects.
“First, we respect the Police as the defending champions, who have good players and are a good team. On our part, we are equally a good team, and we have to prove why we are ranked second and going for the title. We can only do it by winning matches and the police being among them. We have to make our players understand the importance of winning this game,” he stated.
The gaffer also gave an update on the players’ availability, confirming the return of influential skipper Kayci Odhiambo. Ambani also disclosed that first-team keeper Humphrey Katasi was nearing fitness, marking another major boost for the team ahead of the important run-ins that also included a potential early league decider against Gor Mahia in the famed Mashemeji Derby.
Kayci returns
“We still have some more days to go. I’m happy Kayci (Odhiambo) is back, and Katasi is nearing his return. We believe he will be joining the team in the course of the week, and Masaba has also been back in training. So we are good to go,” he stated.
His remarks come after he acknowledged the importance of the team’s management and players’ input in Ingwe’s impressive season thus far.
Teamwork
“It has been a collective effort. Teamwork is working for us, and I have to appreciate the entire team for the work,” stated Ambani, who bagged the March Coach of the Month accolade.
“We also have to thank our fans. Without them checking on us, we could have slacked off; they have been immense in coming to the team’s games. The management has also been instrumental with their support, ensuring players get paid on time and the boys stay motivated. I want to encourage them to continue what they are doing, and the results will show,” he stated.
The encounter will take place at 4:00 pm in Kasarani Stadium