Fred Ambani Hails Unlikely Hero as AFC Leopards Regain Scoring Form

AFC Leopards head coach Fred Ambani has praised returning striker Christopher Koloti as the missing piece in his team's attack after a string of unproductive performances in front of goal.

Ambani, who spent weeks experimenting with his frontline to boost their scoring form, finally found the answer in Koloti, a player who had been sent out on loan at the start of the season.

Formerly loaned to Mathare United by Ambani’s predecessor Thomas Trucha, Koloti was recalled in January, midway through the season.

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Since then, the striker has been instrumental in helping Leopards climb the league standings.

Koloti's recent goal in the 3-1 win over Mathare United at the Dandora Stadium on Wednesday was further proof of his value to the team.

“Looking at Koloti’s performance, I can say he is a player we had on loan, and that was not my decision,” said Ambani after the win.

“I wanted him to stay, but everyone has their own philosophy. Coming back from loan, I had to instill a new mindset in him—being tougher against defenders and more forceful in the channels.”

Ambani noted that while his previous forwards had technical abilities, they lacked the physical edge needed to consistently threaten opposing defenses.

Koloti’s aggressive style and willingness to adapt have reinvigorated the team’s forward line.

With goals from Koloti, Kayci Odhiambo, and Ronald Sichenje sealing the victory over Mathare, Leopards moved up to sixth on the log with 45 points, narrowing the gap to fifth-placed Kakamega Homeboyz, who sit on 51.

Importantly, Leopards have a game in hand following the postponement of the Mashemeji Derby against Gor Mahia, initially slated for last Sunday at Kasarani.

A new date and venue for the highly anticipated clash are yet to be announced.