AFC Leopards will be aiming to tighten the gap at the top of the SportPesa League table when they host Kariobangi Sharks at Nyayo National Stadium on Sunday in a high-stakes 4 PM (EAT) kickoff.
The encounter presents two contrasting ambitions, with AFC Leopards pushing to keep pace with league leaders Gor Mahia while Kariobangi Sharks continue their fight to avoid relegation as the season enters its decisive phase.
AFC Leopards head into the match sitting second on the league standings with 49 points from 25 matches, having registered 14 wins, seven draws, and only four defeats.
Ingwe have been one of the most consistent sides this season and will be looking to build on their narrow 1-0 victory over Tusker FC in their last outing. Victory in this fixture would see them reduce the seven-point gap between them and Gor Mahia, keeping their title hopes alive and giving their supporters renewed belief in a possible late push for the crown.
ALSO READ: Gor Mahia’s Jackson Dwang headlines SportPesa League Team of the Week for Round 25
AFC Leopards aim to close gap on Gor Mahia
On the other hand, Kariobangi Sharks find themselves in a difficult position, currently placed 14th on the table with just five wins, ten draws, and ten losses.
The Sharks are still hovering dangerously close to the relegation zone and cannot afford any slip-ups in the remaining fixtures. Their recent form has been inconsistent, managing only two wins in their last five league matches, alongside two losses and a draw, including a defeat to Posta Rangers FC in their previous match.
ALSO READ: AFC Leopards edge Tusker FC to narrow gap against Gor Mahia in title race
Kariobangi Sharks head coach William Muluya is optimistic ahead of the clash and is particularly motivated by the prospect of facing several of his former players who now feature for AFC Leopards.
“It will be a good game. Sometimes you are eager to play against players like Tyson who is on form because he was once our player here. I am also eager to face Julius Masaba, Frederick Alushula, Samuel Semo and Victor Omune who were once Sharks players. The 12th man has always been pushing them, and I believe our biggest weapon will be our mentality,” said Muluya.
Historically, AFC Leopards have dominated this fixture in recent seasons, giving them a psychological advantage heading into the tie. However, Kariobangi Sharks will be hoping desperation for survival can inspire an upset.
A win for Kariobangi Sharks would significantly boost their chances of staying in the top flight, while victory for AFC Leopards would pile pressure on Gor Mahia at the summit and keep the title race alive.
Kariobangi Sharks will be without Ally Salum and Timothy Ekhavi, who are both set to miss the clash. AFC Leopards, meanwhile, are expected to be without Brian Ojok, Kayci Odhiambo, Ellias Mugane, Maxwell Otieno, Emmanuel Lwangu, and Humphrey Katasi.
The match will kick off at 4 PM (EAT) and will be broadcast live on Azam Sports HD, with both teams expected to give everything in what promises to be an intense and entertaining SportPesa League encounter.