NAIROBI, Kenya – AFC Leopards proved their championship mettle on Thursday afternoon, securing a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Ulinzi Stars in a gripping encounter at the Ulinzi Sports Complex.
In a match defined by tactical patience and late-game heroics, Victor Otieno emerged as the savior for ‘Ingwe’, scoring a dramatic winner just before the final whistle.
First Half: Tyson Otieno Breaks the Deadlock
The match began with high intensity as both sides looked for early dominance. AFC Leopards, under the guidance of coach Fred Ambani, showed greater urgency from the onset.
Tyson Otieno was a constant threat, coming close in the 9th minute with an audacious overhead kick that narrowly missed the target.
The breakthrough finally came during first-half stoppage time (45+2′). Tyson Otieno capitalized on a corner-kick opportunity, delivering a curling effort that found the back of the net to give the Leopards a slender lead heading into the break.
Second Half: The Kenya Defence Forces team, Ulinzi Stats, returned for the second half with renewed vigor. Their persistence paid off quickly in the 50th minute when Paul Okoth Odhiambo restored parity. After receiving a well-timed pass, Odhiambo struck a clinical equalizer that silenced the traveling Leopards’ faithful and set the stage for a frantic final half-hour.
The Grandstand Finish
As the clock ticked toward 90 minutes, the match seemed destined for a draw. However, AFC Leopards’ persistence in the final third was rewarded in the 89th minute. Victor Otieno found a pocket of space in the box and fired home the decisive goal, ensuring Ingwe walked away with all three points.
The victory is a significant statement for AFC Leopards as they continue their pursuit of their first league title since 1998.
For Ulinzi Stars, the result is another narrow setback in what has been a challenging season of managing close contests.
Other Thursday Scores at a Glance
Murang’a SEAL 1-0 Kenya Police FC
Kariobangi Sharks 1-0 Bidco Utd.
League Standings: This win propels AFC Leopards to 21 points, keeping them firmly in the hunt alongside Gor Mahia (23 points) and KCB FC (21 points).
