Muhiddin: AFC Leopards, Gor Mahia set for explosive KPL title race

Gor Mahia won a record 21st league title last season with 69 points, finishing five ahead of traditional rivals AFC Leopards. Muhiddin believes Leopards will be driven by their long wait for a first league crown since 1998.

“Gor Mahia were not ready when they lost 3-1 to Tusker in the FKF Super Cup final at Nyayo National Stadium. They had just completed a high-intensity CECAFA tournament in Rwanda, where almost seven of their players suffered injuries.

“However, once they have all their players fit, they will cause havoc,” Muhiddin said.

He warned Leopards against complacency despite their encouraging pre-season results.

“Leopards should not relax. They must keep their heads high and their feet on the ground because the challenge has already arrived.

“These are friendly matches, and there are many things to try during pre-season. But they have done well, and that will boost their confidence as they pursue their first title in 28 years.”

Muhiddin, a former Leopards and Bandari tactician, expects an unpredictable campaign but believes the leading contenders will go head-to-head for the crown.

He also refused to rule out Tusker and Kenya Police from the title race.

“Looking at the preparation matches we have seen so far and considering the quality of our league, the season is going to be highly competitive. It will be difficult to predict who will win.

“I think the title race will go all the way to the final match of the season,” he said.

Leopards have gone unbeaten in their pre-season friendlies, beating Kakamega Homeboyz 2-0 and Nairobi United 2-1 before drawing 0-0 with 3K FC.

Gor Mahia, meanwhile, enjoyed an impressive CECAFA Kagame Cup campaign in Rwanda, reaching the final before losing 2-1 to hosts Rayon Sports after extra time in Kigali.

With Leopards chasing an elusive title and Gor seeking to defend their crown, Muhiddin expects the two Kenyan giants to set the pace in what could be one of the most fiercely contested FKF Premier League campaigns in years.