AFC Leopards coach reveals tactical masterclass in win over Ulinzi Stars

AFC Leopards head coach Fred Ambani has revealed the tactical blueprint that inspired his side’s crucial 2-0 victory over Ulinzi Stars in a rescheduled FKF Premier League clash at Nyayo National Stadium on Wednesday, 13 May.

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Speaking to Azam TV after the encounter, Ambani explained that exploiting the wide areas and utilizing cut-back deliveries proved decisive against a disciplined Ulinzi side that had crowded the midfield, and remained strong aerially.

Leopards produced a composed display to secure maximum points in their pursuit of the league crown, with Kelly Madada opening the scoring in the 43rd minute, before Emmanuel Lwangu sealed the victory eight minutes from time.

AFC Leopards claw past Ulinzi Stars to close gap on Gor Mahia to four points

Ingwe dominated possession in the opening half, and eventually found the breakthrough through a well-worked move from the flanks.

Hassan Beja delivered a clever cut-back pass into the area, where Madada arrived perfectly to slot home, and hand Leopards a deserved lead heading into the break.

Ulinzi returned for the second half looking more organized and compact defensively, frustrating Leopards for large spells, as they attempted to force their way back into the contest.

However, Ambani’s charges remained patient, and eventually struck again from another set-piece situation.

A pinpoint corner delivery from James Kinyanjui found an unmarked Lwangu, who powered home a commanding header to put the result beyond doubt.

Ambani disclosed that his technical bench had identified weaknesses in Ulinzi’s defensive shape, particularly in the wide channels, and instructed his wingers to constantly stretch play and attack from the flanks.

“We noticed they were vulnerable on the flanks, and that is what we decided to exploit. They were very compact in midfield, so I instructed Kinyanjui and Beja to remain wide and keep probing those areas,” said Ambani.

“Their goalkeeper is very good aerially, so we avoided unnecessary crosses, and instead focused on cut-back passes. That worked perfectly for us and gave us the advantage.”

The former Kenyan international further emphasized that Leopards must now approach every remaining fixture with a cup-final mentality, as the title race heads into its decisive stages.

“We are going to Kakamega knowing very well that we still have work to do. I have already told the players that every game from now is a final. We must fight for maximum points if we want to keep our title hopes alive,” he added.

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The victory keeps the 12-time league champions firmly in the hunt for the FKF Premier League title, as they seek to end a 28-year wait for league glory. Leopards currently sit four points adrift of arch rivals Gor Mahia in a closely contested title race.

They now face a demanding final stretch of the season, beginning with a high-stakes Ingo Derby against Kakamega Homeboyz in Kakamega. They will then host APS Bomet, before concluding their campaign against relegation-threatened Bidco United.