Ambani inspired AFC Leopards back to winning ways in his first match as interim coach after Czech coach Tomas Trucha departed the club for the second time.
AFC Leopards interim head coach Fred Ambani has outlined the path he must take to secure the position on a permanent basis following their crucial 1-0 victory over Kenya Police last weekend.
The win, which ended the team's five-game winless streak, marked a turning point for the 12-time league champions under Ambani’s guidance.
Kennedy Owino was the hero of the day, scoring a decisive second-half goal that earned Leopards three vital points. The victory elevated the team to eighth place in the league standings, just eight points behind leaders KCB with a game in hand, offering a renewed sense of optimism for the Ingwe faithful.
Ambani stepped into the role following Tomas Trucha's dismissal, which came after a dismal run of three losses in four matches, including a 2-0 defeat to Shabana.
Sources indicated that Trucha's strained relationship with the playing unit was a significant factor in the team's poor performances, leading to his eventual exit.
Under Ambani’s leadership, the team showed resilience and tactical discipline, elements that had been missing in recent games. He has since emphasised the importance of fostering unity within the squad to sustain their newfound momentum.
“It depends on the results. If we continue getting the right results, I do not see why not,” Ambani told Pulse Sports.
14:02 - 02.12.2024
AFC Leopards interim coach Fred Ambani on how he inspired charges to get back to winning ways against Kenya Police
Ambani got AFC Leopards to return to winning ways in his first match as interim coach following Tomas Trucha's departure.
“I believe the players will support us, which is the most important thing because when I get that, I will not find it difficult getting supported by the team.”
Ambani faces the dual challenge of restoring harmony among the players and achieving consistent results.
The fallout from Trucha’s decision to sideline influential players like Kayci Odhiambo had unsettled the squad, making player support a critical factor in Ambani's success.
Looking ahead, AFC Leopards will face Kakamega Homeboyz in Mumias this weekend. Homeboyz, fresh from a 2-0 win over Shabana, pose a formidable challenge, but a positive result could further bolster Ambani’s case for a permanent appointment.
08:01 - 04.12.2024
Can someone check on former Kenya Police coach? Logarusic’s vanishing act stirs drama again
Croatian tactician Zdravko Logarusic pulls another disappearing act in Eswatini sparking controversy over unpaid allowances and national team duties.
Ambani's ability to build on this momentum will be pivotal. The team’s resurgence under his leadership has not only reignited their league campaign but also offered hope for a brighter future.
If he can continue to deliver positive results while maintaining the trust and unity of the playing unit, Ambani could very well secure his place at the helm of one of Kenya’s most storied football clubs.
The Mumias clash promises to be a litmus test, but for now, AFC Leopards appear to be back on track, thanks to Ambani's steady hand and tactical acumen.