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AFC Leopards head coach Fred Ambani has identified poor finishing as the team’s biggest weakness in the opening stages of the 2026/27 Football Kenya Federation Premier League season, despite being encouraged by the side’s overall performances.
The 12-time Kenyan league champions have scored only twice in their first three matches, a statistic that highlights their struggles in front of goal and raises questions about their attacking efficiency as the campaign gathers momentum.
Ingwe have found the net just two times in their opening three league fixtures. The team failed to score in its other two matches, including the latest encounter against Shabana.
The lack of goals has become an early concern for Ambani, whose players have shown promise in possession and chance creation but have not been clinical enough in decisive moments.
Ambani believes Leopards have performed well in several areas of the game, but poor finishing has prevented them from collecting better results. The coach said his players were creating opportunities and competing effectively, but lacked the composure required to convert those chances.
He also expressed hope that injured players would return soon and give the team more attacking options as the season continues.
Leopards’ attacking shortcomings were especially visible during their goalless draw against Shabana. Samuel Ssenyonjo missed a clear first-half opportunity after heading over the target with only the goalkeeper to beat.
Captain Kaycie Odhiambo later had the chance to secure victory from the penalty spot, but failed to convert in the second half. The missed penalty left Leopards frustrated and ensured the hosts departed without the winning goal they needed.
Despite Odhiambo’s penalty miss, Ambani has refused to place the blame on his captain. He admitted that the missed opportunity affected the momentum of the match, but praised Odhiambo’s overall contribution and leadership. The coach remains confident that the captain will respond positively and convert similar opportunities in future matches.
Leopards will have an immediate opportunity to address their scoring problems when they travel to Awendo for a midweek league fixture against Mara Sugar. Ingwe are scheduled to face Mara Sugar on Wednesday, October 28. Ambani hopes his players can turn their promising build-up play into goals and produce a more effective attacking display.