AFC Leopards Coach Reveals Why Gor Mahia and Co Should Be Worried Ahead of New Season

AFC Leopards coach Fred Ambani has explained why Gor Mahia, Shabana FC and other FKF Premier League rivals should be wary of Ingwe ahead of the 2026/27 season.

AFC Leopards have enjoyed an impressive pre-season campaign, capping it with a 1-0 victory over Uganda’s 13-time champions KCCA FC at Nyayo National Stadium on Saturday, August 22.

The win has provided an early confidence boost for Ingwe as they prepare for the new campaign, with the club determined to build on last season’s strong finish and challenge for the league title.

However, Fred Ambani knows there is still work to be done, with the Leopards coach keen to fine-tune several areas before the competitive season gets underway.

Fred Ambani expressed his satisfaction with the way AFC Leopards’ new signings have settled into the squad, saying their integration has been encouraging ahead of the new season.

The coach noted that the newcomers have already begun building strong relationships with their teammates and adapting to the demands of the team, giving him confidence that they can make a meaningful contribution once the competitive campaign gets underway.

Ambani also highlighted the importance of the club’s latest recruits understanding the tactical identity he wants the team to adopt.

With players such as Musa Ceesay, Erick Balecho and Issa Emuria joining the group alongside other new arrivals, the coach explained that the technical team is putting considerable effort into helping them adapt to the system and expectations at AFC Leopards.

He believes the quality and versatility brought in during the transfer window can strengthen the squad across different areas of the pitch, while also giving the coaching staff more options as the season progresses.

With the new players continuing to adapt and the squad building chemistry during pre-season, Ambani is optimistic that the additions can make their presence felt when the league campaign begins.

“I’m glad that the fans have shown up in large numbers today; it has been a successful day. They have been gelling in well, and I think they will have something positive to give to the team as the season starts,” Fred Ambani said after their win over KCCA.

“I believe in them to make a mark. For our new signings, we are working hard to ensure they understand our style of play.”

Fred Ambani also praised the team’s pre-season campaign, pointing to the positive results as an important source of confidence ahead of the new season.

He explained that AFC Leopards have won all three of their pre-season matches so far, giving the players belief that they are moving in the right direction.

The coach believes the winning run has created a positive atmosphere within the squad and strengthened the players’ belief in their ability to compete at a higher level.

He added that the performances and results have given the team encouragement as they continue preparing for what they hope will be a successful campaign.

“Our pre-season matches have been great because the results have been coming in. We have won our three matches, and this gives the team a lot of confidence that for the next season, they can do something great,” he said.