AFC Leopards Head Coach Fred Ambani Praises Harambee Stars Forward After Comeback Win Over Shabana in Gusii

AFC Leopards head coach Fred Ambani has hailed Harambee Stars forward Victor Omune for his match-winning contribution in their 2-1 comeback victory over Shabana FC at the Gusii Stadium on Wednesday.

The win extended Leopards’ unbeaten run in the 2025 SportPesa Premier League, while piling more pressure on Shabana, who have now gone four games without victory.

 The hosts had taken an early lead through Austin Odongo before Omune struck the equalising goal after being set up well by Julius Masaba.

An unfortunate own goal, forced by a James Kinyanjui corner, proved decisive to secure all three points for Ambani’s side.

Speaking after the game, Ambani praised his team’s composure and tactical discipline, particularly highlighting the impact of his second-half substitutions.

“He [Kelly Madada] is a good player, but in terms of the final-third delivery, he was not effective,” Ambani explained. “That is why I brought on Julius Masaba, a winger, because it would be easy for him to give assists.”

The tactical change immediately gave Leopards more width and penetration. But the introduction of Omune proved to be the turning point.

“With Omune, we were struggling to have someone who could retain possession in the final third,” Ambani said. “He used his experience to great effect and was rewarded with a goal because he did what we told him to do.”

Omune’s decisive strike marked his third goal of the campaign and reinforced his importance in Ambani’s attacking setup. 

The forward, who last received a Harambee Stars call up in March 2025,  showcased both strength and composure as he led Leopards’ late surge.

“These players earned the win,” Ambani added. “We were dominant from start to finish, and you can see in the end, we got what we deserved. I am so happy for them, and this is only the beginning.”

Leopards are now fifth on nine points after five games played, a period in which they have lost none.