Vihiga seek Leopards scalp in GOtv Shield semis

What you need to know:

  • Sony Sugar and Kariobangi Sharks face off in the other semi-final at the same venue.
  • Vihiga also boasts a number of former Ingwe players in the likes of veteran midfielder Charles Okwemba, Martin Imbalambala and Barnabas Tiema, making Sunday’s match a tricky tie.

AFC Leopards take on National Super League leaders Vihiga United on Sunday in the GOtv Shield semi-finals at the Afraha Stadium in Nakuru.

Sony Sugar and Kariobangi Sharks face off in the other semi-final at the same venue.

Vihiga United, who are bank rolled by the Vihiga County Government, will be seeking their first ever appearance in the final of the Domestic Cup where the winner will get Sh2 million as well as the opportunity to represent Kenya in the Caf Confederation Cup next year.

Vihiga reached the semi-finals for the very first time after stunning holders Tusker 2-0 last month at Nyayo Stadium and will be looking to upset another big gun in Nakuru.

'HOME-BOY AFFAIR'

Coached by former Leopards duo Edward Manoah and Francis Xavier, Vihiga also boasts a number of former Ingwe players in the likes of veteran midfielder Charles Okwemba, Martin Imbalambala and Barnabas Tiema, making Sunday’s match a tricky tie.

Losing, it seems, is not a common vocabulary for the Vihiga-based team as demonstrated by their league record that has seen them lose just twice in their 26 games so far this season.

They lead the NSL with 58 points with a five-point advantage over second placed Nairobi Stima, and are on the verge of gaining promotion to the top tier league for the first time in their history.

“Four of my players are injured, and we are now forced to make many changes to the squad. I have no choice but to field some fringe players in such a crucial match and I hope they shall rise to the occasion,” Manoah said. 

SHARKS, SONY FACE-OFF

With this tournament the only path for Leopards to return to continental football, Robert Matano and his charges are expected to go all out in their quest to reclaim the title they last won in 2014.

Goalkeeper Ian Otieno, who started in their 2-0 win over Thika United on Wednesday, is likely to be retained by Matano in the starting 11.

“We can’t afford to underrate them. They may be in the lower tier but look at the players they have. Watch how they played against Tusker. They are a good side and we will be very cautious so that we beat them at their game,” Ingwe team manager Gilbert Selebwa said.

Kariobangi Sharks will be seeking their first ever appearance in the GOtv Shield final when they tackle Sony Sugar from 12 noon. Sharks dispatched Eldoret Youth 5-0 while Sony eliminated 2015 winners Bandari 3-1 in last month’s quarterfinals.

FIXTURES

Sony Sugar v Kariobangi Sharks (Afraha, 12pm)

AFC Leopards v Vihiga United (Afraha, 2.30pm)