AFC Leopards resilience pays off after facing relegation threat
By Joel Masibo, June 26, 2024
AFC Leopards, Kenya’s second most successful football club embarked on the 2023/24 FKF Premier League season that tested the very fabric of their identity and resolve.
The just concluded campaign started dismaly for the 1998 champions, burdened by a FIFA suspension that restricted them from signing new players.
This punitive measure, a result of previous administrative mishaps, left the club grappling with a thin and largely inexperienced squad. Yet, in the face of adversity, AFC Leopards rose from the brink of relegation to a commendable fifth-place finish, demonstrating a remarkable turnaround at the beginning of the year.
The early months of the season were challenging for the Tomas Trucha’s Leopards.
Ingwee struggled to find form, often languishing near the relegation zone with Muhoroni Youth, Nzoia Sugar FC and Shabana in that mix.
The inability to reinforce the squad meant relying heavily on young talents like Kayci Odhiambo and a few seasoned veterans like the custodian Levis Opiyo, who were stretched to their limits.
Results were inconsistent, and the threat of relegation was a grim reality.However, as the season progressed, something extraordinary began to unfold. The resignation of head coach Patrick Aussems paved way for Trucha’s era.
The team, under the astute leadership of the Serbian head coach, began to gel. Trucha, known for his tactical acumen and ability to inspire players, instilled a sense of belief and resilience in the squad with the likes of Victor Omune rising from the ruins.
Central to this resurgence were the loyal supporters of AFC Leopards, affectionately known as “Ingwe Fans.” Through thick and thin, they filled the stands, their unwavering chants and vibrant displays of support providing a crucial morale boost for the players.
Speaking to the People Sport, Joseph Wafula, an AFC Leopards diehard revealed that the fans’ dedication created an atmosphere that turned home matches into formidable challenges for the opponents.
“The bond between the team and its supporters became a cornerstone of their recovery,” Joseph explained.
“This connection fueled a series of spirited performances that saw the club climb the table steadily.”