KCB will be aiming to return to winning ways today when they host former champions AFC Leopards in a Kenya Premier League (KPL) mid-week clash at the Sportpesa Arena, Murang’a County.

Placed third on the league table after a 1-1 draw with Nairobi City Stars, the Bankers are determined to claim maximum points and close the gap on league leaders.

Head coach Patrick Odhiambo has urged his players to maintain focus and seize their chances against the eighth-placed Ingwe in what is expected to be a fiercely contested encounter.

“AFC Leopards is a top side. We all know their capability and do not doubt it, so we must be on top of our game tomorrow to register the maximum points. Of course, we have to keep winning games to ensure that we remain top and probably clinch the title at the end of the season,” said Odhiambo.

However, KCB will have to navigate the game without key players. Kenyan international defender Haniff Wesonga is sidelined with a knee injury, while Maurice Ojwang is suspended after accumulating five yellow cards. Francis Oduor is set to anchor the defence in Wesonga’s absence.

In attack, top scorer Francis Kahiro will partner with Philemon Nyakwakwa, supported by James Kinyanjui and Stephen Etyang on the wings. Inform captain Michael Mutinda will command the midfield alongside Farraj Ominde, as the Bankers look to break down Leopards’ defence.

Mutinda expressed confidence in the team’s preparations, citing their improved form in training. “The boys are showcasing a strong desire to keep winning games. Everyone is working so hard to ensure that we position this club as one of the best in the league,” he stated.

KCB, however, will be without long-serving midfielder Brian ‘Rio’ Ochieng, fullback Herrit Mungai, and Henry Ochieng, who all exited the club during the January transfer window.

AFC Leopards, no strangers to big occasions, will pose a significant threat to KCB’s ambitions.