Lokale has lauded three AFC Leopards teammates for for helping him enjoy a fine start to his career at AFC Leopards.
AFC Leopards striker Sydney Lokale has highlighted the crucial role his teammates have played in helping him settle quickly at his new club, a transition that has seen him hit the ground running this season.
Since joining Ingwe from Congolese side Saint Eloi Lupopo, the former Kariobangi Sharks forward has already netted three goals in four league matches, earning him a call-up to the Harambee Stars squad ahead of their Africa Cup of Nations qualifying double-header against Cameroon.
The 24-year-old striker has attributed his smooth integration into the team to three key teammates: Victor Omune, Kayci Odhiambo, and Brian Wanyama.
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Lokale particularly praised his developing on-field partnership with Omune, who plays in the number 10 role. Given head coach Tomas Trucha’s preference for a formation that utilises a single striker, Lokale believes this partnership will be essential to his success.
“Looking at the formations we use, we deploy one striker upfront, so I am looking forward to developing my partnership with Victor Omune,” Lokale shared in an interview with Sports Eye Sports.
He also spoke highly of Kayci Odhiambo, a versatile player who operates both as a defender and midfielder, though they have yet to feature together in a competitive match. "Kayci Odhiambo is another. I haven’t played with him yet, but it is coming along well," Lokale said.
Beyond footballing connections, Lokale expressed admiration for Brian Wanyama's spiritual influence, which has drawn him closer to the midfielder.
"Brian Wanyama both on and off the pitch—he’s prayerful and God-fearing, and that has really brought me closer to him,” Lokale noted.
As Lokale enjoys his strong start to the season, he also reflected on the challenges posed by certain opponents. Among those who gave him a tough time are his AFC Leopards teammate Kennedy Owino and Talanta FC’s new goalkeeper, Benard Odhiambo.
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"I found it difficult playing against Ken Owino when I was at KCB. Benard Odhiambo is another, now at Talanta. They’re both very physical, and tough to handle," he admitted.
Looking ahead, Lokale has set his sights on winning the Golden Boot, revealing that his ambitions go beyond just scoring goals.
"I want to win the top scorer award. If the guy behind me gets 21 goals, then you know what I need to win," he said with a determined smile.
Lokale also praised the tactical approach of head coach Tomas Trucha, noting that the team has experimented with different formations, including playing with both one and two strikers depending on the opposition. “The formations vary depending on the opponent. It is coming together well. He has some good tactics, and I feel that our chemistry is aligned. He’s already making a positive change in me, and I’m loving it.”
With his strong start and growing confidence, Lokale is poised to become a key figure for AFC Leopards this season as they aim for success both in the league and beyond.