Leopards may spring major surprise in GOtv Shield final

AFC Leopards’ training in Machakos on Thursday indicated that their coach Robert Matano may deploy a different formation from his usual 4-3-3 when they take on Kariobangi Sharks in the final of the GOtv Shield at Kasarani on Friday.

“As we try very hard to finish the league among the top eight, we also want to win the GOtv crown. It’s been a while since Leopards won a trophy and we must capitalise on this opportunity,” said Matano.

After battling relegation fears for the better part of the 2017 KPL season, and giving their passionate fans sleepless nights, Leopards captain, Duncan Otieno wants his side to repay their followers by winning the title.

“We have trained well for two days together after beating Ulinzi Stars 1-0 in a league match in Nakuru on Tuesday. It is a short time to recover for the final, but we are ready for the challenge,” said Otieno, who will play in place of the injured Robinson Kamura in the defence.

“We are going to give our very best and get this ticket to represent Kenya in next year’s Confederation Cup."

Most of the players in the squad would like to play on the continental level,” he said.

Ingwe’s main strength is expected to be at the back, where Otieno and Salim Abdalla have formed a solid partnership.

Youngster Dennis Sikhayi will be considered for the left-back slot, while Lewis Wanami freshly recovered from injury is likely to be preferred to Kibwage at right-back.

In midfield, Musa Mudde will be the anchor, allowing Victor Majid and Whyvonne Isuza to roam behind the strikers and control the tempo.

Experienced Andrew Tololwa gives option on the right flank in place of the injured Marcellus Ingotsi while Aziz Okaka will be operating from the left.

Isuza can also play as a second striker in more attacking.

In attack, Matano must decide between who too start between Alexis Kitenge and Vincent Oburu as the centre forward.

Meanwhile, club chairman Dan Mule has called on the team’s supporters to turn up in large numbers at Kasarani and cheer the team to victory.

Speaking Thursday, Mule promised to give the playing unit Sh200,000 Friday before the match to boost their morale.

“I gave them Sh100,000 when they qualified for the semi-finals,. These boys need our full support. You know what a Leopard with intent can do,” he said.

The boys need our support from its fan base. I have full confidence in my players and technical bench officials.

The winner of the tournament will pocket Sh2 million and represent Kenya in next year’s Caf Confederation Cup.

The runners up will walk away with Sh1 million, third place team Sh750,000 while the fourth placed will earn Sh500,000.