AFC Leopards set to unleash fury against Sofapaka in 'Cats derby'

AFC Leopards set to unleash fury against Sofapaka in 'Cats derby'

Festus Chuma 08:41 - 07.04.2024

AFC Leopards are aiming to rebound against Sofapaka in a FKF Premier League clash, seeking victory in the highly anticipated 'Cats Derby.'

AFC Leopards are poised to sharpen their claws and reclaim their prowess in the Football Kenya Federation Premier League (FKFPL) as they host Sofapaka in a captivating Cats derby at Nyayo National Stadium on Sunday afternoon.

Following a narrow defeat to Tusker that halted their impressive 10-game unbeaten streak,Leopards are eager to bounce back and ascend the league standings.

The setback against Tusker just before the international break, where Ingwe fell 1-0, marked the end of a formidable run for the team. 

Before this loss, AFC Leopards showcased remarkable cohesion and determination, with players fervently contending for their positions amidst intense internal competition.

The upcoming match presents an opportunity for redemption and a chance to continue their journey up the league table.

In a recent discussion reflecting on the tough choices he faces regarding team selection, coach Tomas Trucha expressed the pressures of managing a talented squad.

 "I am not sleeping well because every night I am thinking about who to play and who not to play," Trucha revealed.

As they prepare to face Sofapaka, Leopards' fans are pinning their hopes on Arthur Gitego and Maxwell Otieno to spearhead the attack and clinch their second win of the season. 

Despite the teams drawing 1-1 in their first encounter this season, AFC Leopards find themselves in a more favorable position on the league table, sitting eighth with 34 points compared to Sofapaka's fifteenth place with 26 points.

Sofapaka are in search of a resurgence with their last league victory dating back to February underscoring a challenging phase for the 2009 Kenya Premier League champions.

Recent performances have shown promise, but the team has struggled to convert these into victories, drawing against Muhoroni, FC Talanta, and Bidco United, and suffering a 2-1 loss to Murang’a Seal.

The history between these two teams adds an intriguing layer to the upcoming match. 

Sofapaka has had the upper hand in their last six encounters, securing two wins and drawing four times. However, AFC Leopards are determined to rewrite this narrative and record their first victory over Sofapaka since December 2020.

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