How Leopards have turned the coin around at the den – but can it last?

 Belief, hope, and the dream of glory days have returned to the den, is it?

AFC Leopards are now third on the Kenya Premier League (KPL) log, just two points behind leaders Kakamega Homeboyz, after collecting 12 points from three wins and three draws.

Not long ago, fans were chanting “Ambani must go!” as pressure mounted on head coach Fred Ambani. But in a dramatic turnaround, the team is now firmly in the title conversation - albeit still early in the season.

Leopards have strung together impressive victories over KCB, Shabana, and Mathare United, adding to three earlier draws against Sofapaka, Posta Rangers, and Bandari. The results have silenced critics and reignited optimism among the Ingwe faithful.

Just weeks ago, Ambani was under immense pressure, but the chants have now changed to “Ambani must stay!” as fans rally behind him, believing he is the man to restore the club’s lost glory.

The joy is palpable. Smiles have returned to the faces of Leopards supporters, buoyed by results that have lifted the blue-and-white outfit within touching distance of the summit.

When Boniface Ambani was elected club chairman, he found his elder brother already serving as head coach. One of his first moves was to formalize the technical bench’s contracts - a decision aimed at stabilizing the team and fostering continuity.

While some questioned the wisdom of two brothers leading the club, others saw it as poetic -  the duo were part of the last Leopards side to lift the league title in 1998, and few understand the club’s culture better.

So far, Leopards and defending champions Kenya Police remain the only unbeaten teams after six rounds of matches, the latter having played just three games due to earlier continental engagements.

Coach Ambani attributes the team’s resurgence to faith, discipline, and hard work.

“First of all, glory to God. I’m happy for the hard work the boys have put in. I believe in progress, patience, and effort - nine points is no small achievement after what we’ve been through,” said Ambani.

He also reserved special praise for scorers Vincent Mahiga and James Kinyanjui, whose contributions were crucial in the team’s latest win.

“The boys are giving their all and playing for the badge. Kinyanjui has been a great addition - a blessing to the team and a big reason we’re winning matches. The entire squad has shown immense spirit,” he noted.

“Getting a two-goal advantage against Mathare was vital. We knew we had to stay alert and push for that second goal to be safe.”

Leopards will next host Murang’a Seal on November 8, eyeing a fourth consecutive win that could propel them even higher - especially if Gor Mahia and Homeboyz stumble in their upcoming fixtures.

For now, belief has been rekindled - and the roar at the den grows louder each week.