AFC Leopards’ quest to close the gap on the FKF Premier League leaders suffered a setback after they fell 1-0 to Murang’a Seal in a tightly contested match at Sportpesa Arena on Wednesday, October 23, 2024.
Coming off a 1-1 draw against Kariobangi Sharks, Leopards were optimistic about grabbing all three points. Head coach Thomas Trucha made key changes, starting Peter Maker, Clifton Miheso, and Samuel Semo in a bid to control the game. Despite their aggressive start, Murang’a Seal sat back, relying on counterattacks to catch the visitors off guard.
Leopards came close to opening the scoring when Victor Otieno made a dazzling run, beating several defenders before setting up Arthur Gitego, who narrowly missed the target. Boniface Munyendo then attempted a curling effort from distance, which also failed to find the net. Ochieng Ovella’s shot struck the post as Seal defended resiliently, leaving the scores level at halftime.
In the second half, Leopards introduced Victor Omune and Sydney Lokale to bolster their attack. However, it was Murang’a Seal who had the last laugh. Humphrey Obina popped up in stoppage time, converting a free-kick to seal a 1-0 win and hand the hosts a dramatic victory.
Kenya Police FC March Past Mathare United
Elsewhere, Kenya Police FC secured a 2-0 win over Mathare United at the Police Sacco Stadium. Goals from Marvin Nabwire and Kenneth Muguna in either half were enough to secure three points for the home side, leaving Mathare United struggling to find form.
Homeboyz, Bidco, and Sofapaka Earn First Wins
Kakamega Homeboyz bounced back from their weekend humiliation against KCB with a 2-0 win over Nairobi City Stars at Mumias Complex. Oliver Majak opened the scoring in the sixth minute, and despite City Stars being awarded a penalty soon after, Homeboyz keeper James Ssetuba saved Yuto Kusaba’s effort. Moses Shumah added a second goal just before halftime to secure Homeboyz’s first win of the season.
At Sportpesa Arena, Bidco United finally notched their first win of the season, edging Kariobangi Sharks 1-0 with a stoppage-time goal from Desmond Agofa. Similarly, Sofapaka registered their first victory, overcoming Shabana FC 1-0 at Gusii Stadium, thanks to a Douglas Ochoko strike.
Ulinzi Stars Hold Tusker in a 1-1 Draw
In another match, Ulinzi Stars came from behind to secure a 1-1 draw against Tusker FC at Police Sacco Stadium. After missing a penalty early in the match, Ulinzi were punished by Tusker captain Charles Momanyi, who netted the opener just before halftime. However, Ulinzi’s coach Dustan Nyaudo’s substitution proved decisive as debutant Brian Kafero equalized shortly after being introduced in the second half. Despite Tusker’s late pressure, Ulinzi held on for a point.
In other results, FC Talanta and Bandari FC played out a goalless draw at Kenyatta Stadium, while Gor Mahia and KCB also settled for a 0-0 stalemate at Dandora Stadium. KCB remains atop the league standings.