Dandora, Nairobi – AFC Leopards rebounded from last weekend’s Mashemeji Derby disappointment with a determined comeback at Dandora Stadium on Sunday afternoon, defeating Compel SC 3-1 to earn a spot in the Mozzart Bet Cup semifinals. Despite conceding within 25 seconds of kickoff, Tomas Trucha’s side rallied with goals from Kayci Odhiambo and a double from Arthur Gitego, sealing a comprehensive victory.
The match started with a shock as Compel SC’s Phillip Simiyu blasted in a goal from the edge of the box, taking advantage of a lapse in Leopards’ defense. The early setback left the Leopards’ assistant coach, Fred Ambani, visibly stunned on the sidelines.
Despite the early chaos, Leopards began to find their rhythm. Odhiambo, celebrating his 21st birthday, headed home a perfectly delivered corner from Clifton Miheso to level the score in the 26th minute, alleviating the pressure after the initial blunder. The goal marked the beginning of a dominant performance from the Nairobi-based club.
Just before halftime, Gitego completed the comeback, connecting with another Miheso set-piece to give Leopards the lead. The midfielder continued to threaten the Compel defense with his creativity and energy throughout the match.
Compel SC attempted to respond, with Simiyu narrowly missing the target on a free-kick in the early stages of the second half. Bramwel Simiyu also had a chance to score, but his shot missed the open net after Humphrey Katasi struggled to secure the ball.
However, Leopards’ counterattack proved decisive. A quick transition following a Compel set-piece saw Hassan Beja sprint down the wing before squaring the ball to Gitego, who expertly curled in his second goal of the day, cementing the 3-1 victory for AFC Leopards.
With this win, AFC Leopards advanced to the Mozzart Bet Cup semifinals for the second consecutive year, reigniting their hopes of securing a trophy for the first time since 2017. They will face Kenya Police in the semifinals later next month.
The victory displayed the resilience and attacking prowess of AFC Leopards, as they overcame an early setback to emerge victorious. For Compel SC, the loss highlighted defensive lapses and missed opportunities, which ultimately cost them a spot in the final four.
As Leopards look ahead to their semifinal clash with Kenya Police, coach Tomas Trucha will be hoping to build on the momentum of this comeback victory, while also tightening the defensive gaps that nearly cost them the game. With the Mozzart Bet Cup now within reach, Ingwe fans can look forward to an exciting end to the season.