)
AFC Leopards coach Thomas Trucha has revealed his targets as Ingwe gears up for their season opener against Mathare United while also analysing the side's transfer window.
AFC Leopards' head coach Tomas Trucha has expressed confidence in the team's prospects as they gear up for the new FKF Premier League season. With the opener against Mathare United just around the corner, Trucha assured fans that the squad is laser-focused on hitting the ground running.
Reflecting on last season, Trucha highlighted the significant turnaround after he took charge when the club was teetering on the edge of relegation in 17th place.
"Last season was about survival, and we managed to achieve that goal. This time, I believe we can push for a top-three finish," Trucha remarked.
)
19:30 - 21.08.2024
AFC Leopards unveil four players as they aim to quench FKFPL title drought
Ingwe have unveiled four players as they seek to end their 26-year-wait for the FKFPL title.
Since joining mid-season, Trucha has revitalised the team's performance, guiding them to a commendable fifth-place finish with 51 points. The coach is determined to carry that momentum into the new campaign.
"We want to start with the same intensity we showed last season. The players understand the importance of a strong start, and that’s very encouraging," he said.
However, the Czech tactician did not shy away from voicing his disappointment regarding the club's transfer activities. Despite securing the signatures of key players like Peter Masaba, Sydney Lokale and Samwel Semo, Trucha lamented the missed opportunities.
"I submitted my transfer list to management as early as May, but unfortunately, we couldn’t bring in all the players I wanted. Nevertheless, I’m satisfied with the replacements we've managed to sign, and I believe the team is stronger than last season," Trucha noted.
)
14:42 - 16.08.2024
Harambee Stars coach responds to claims of orchestrating Benson Omala’s Lebanon move
Harambee Stars coach Engin Firat has shed light on reports that he was involved in the transfer of Benson Omala from Gor Mahia to Lebanese outfit Al-Safa FC.
He acknowledged the mixed nature of the transfer window, describing it as a "50-50 situation."While pleased with the quality of the new signings, Trucha feels that more could have been done to match the club's ambitions."
"We’ve brought in quality, but given our aspirations, I think we could have strengthened the squad even further," he added.
In their final pre-season fixture, Leopards secured a 1-0 victory over National Super League side MOFA, thanks to a goal from forward Victor Omune. Earlier, they held Uganda’s Express FC to a goalless draw, providing Trucha with a valuable opportunity to evaluate his squad ahead of the new season. His target is clear: a strong start with wins in the first five matches.
However, Trucha remains measured in his expectations. "Our ambition is to challenge for both the league title and the cup. How we perform in the initial games will give us a clear indication of where we stand," he cautioned.
)
06:00 - 16.08.2024
Benson Omala’s father reveals Engin Firat’s hand in Lebanon transfer
Harambee Stars coach Engin Firat has been reported to have played a major role in helping Benson Omala secure a move to Lebanese outfit Al-Safa FC.
The team's preparations were capped off with a celebratory end-of-season awards gala held at Maa Hotel in Nairobi, organized by the U45 Unit Branch. The event marked Leopards' first-ever awards ceremony, honoring the standout performers from the previous season.
As the new season approaches, AFC Leopards, under Trucha’s guidance, are poised to make a serious bid for glory, aiming to return to their former dominance in Kenyan football.
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
![South Africans slam Zimbabwe fans over disrespectful behaviour in Polokwane after draw against Harambee Stars [VIDEO]](https://sportal365images.com/process/smp-images-production/ringier.africa/16112024/b12cbb67-0d06-43b4-87e1-70b833b36f84.jpg?operations=fit(600:))
)
)
)
)