NAIROBI, Kenya — AFC Leopards kept their FKF Premier League title dreams alive on Wednesday afternoon, securing a gritty 1–0 victory over a resilient Nairobi United at the Nyayo National Stadium.
A clinical early strike from Samuel Ssenyonjo was enough to separate the two sides in a match defined by defensive heroics and a worrying injury to Ingwe’s veteran goalkeeper, Humphrey Katasi.
Ssenyonjo Strikes Early
Ingwe started with intent, and it didn’t take long for the deadlock to break. In the 13th minute, Tyson Otieno carved open the Nairobi United defense with a sublime pass to Samuel Ssenyonjo.
The forward made no mistake, slotting the ball into the back of the net for his 7th goal of the season.
The goal galvanized the home crowd, and Leopards dominated the opening half-hour. However, Nairobi United refused to back down, forcing Humphrey Katasi into a world-class save in the 38th minute to deny the visitors an equalizer from a dangerous free-kick.
Second Half Drama and Keeper Crisis
Nairobi United emerged for the second half with renewed energy, making a double tactical switch by bringing on Hazikimana Muhadjiri and Lesley Otieno for Brian Mzee and Duncan Omala.
The momentum shifted toward the visitors as Enock Machaka and Kevin Otiende whipped in threatening crosses that flashed across the face of the goal.
The pressure mounted further in the 50th minute when play was halted as AFC Leopards keper Humphrey Katasi went down under duress. Despite attempting to soldier on, the Kenyan international was eventually forced off, replaced by James Ssesetuba.
The Ssesetuba Show
The substitute keeper was immediately thrust into the thick of the action. Nairobi United’s Benson Omala looked certain to score with a powerful effort, but Ssesetuba produced a “point-blank” reflex save to maintain the lead.
At the other end, Tyson Otieno nearly caught Nairobi United keeper Kevin Oduor off his line with two audacious long-range attempts from deep, but the scoreline remained unchanged.
Title Race Back On
The win moves AFC Leopards closer to the summit of the FKFPL table, breathing new life into a campaign that had recently stuttered folloqing defeat to Mathare United.
AFC Leopards are now second on 46 points, seven behind leaders Gor Mahia.
By Mark Kinyanjui
