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Pain of a 26-year title drought persists as AFC Leopards face inconsistency, managerial changes, fan unrest and unfulfilled promises.
Since their last league triumph in 1998, AFC Leopards have endured a challenging 26-year title drought, a period marked by managerial upheavals, fan unrest and unfulfilled promises.
The 2024/2025 season encapsulated these struggles, offering moments of hope overshadowed by recurring challenges.
The previous season saw Leopards finish fifth in the FKF Premier League, a commendable position considering their tumultuous start.
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06:41 - 25.12.2024
Gor Mahia: A year of highs and lows for the 21-time beast in 2024
Gor Mahia faced a turbulent 2024, marked by coaching changes, challenges and resilience, aiming to reclaim their football dominance.
Determined to alter this trajectory, the management retained head coach Tomas Trucha, who had shown glimpses of promise in stabilizing the team's performance.
The off-season was characterized by strategic signings aimed at bolstering the squad's competitiveness.
Notable among these was Rwandan striker Arthur Gitego, whose arrival was met with high expectations.
Gitego's initial performances were promising, but as the season progressed, he faced criticism over his goal-scoring record and rumors concerning his off-field conduct.
Addressing these allegations, Gitego stated as per SportsBoom, "I don't take alcohol at all, contrary to what has been spreading on social media."
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11:34 - 26.12.2024
South African legend eyes first national team role with Harambee Stars
FKF are reported to have reached an agreement with South African legend to coach Harambee Stars after CHAN 2024.
Under coach Tomas Trucha, the team initially hovered near relegation but rallied in the latter half, showcasing resilience and tactical improvement.
This resurgence raised expectations for the 2024/2025 campaign, with aspirations to finally end the long-standing title drought
The season commenced with cautious optimism.
Chairman Dan Shikanda assured fans of a robust title challenge, stating, "This season, we have strengthened our squad and are fully prepared to compete for the championship."
However, the early matches mirrored past inconsistencies, with Leopards securing a convincing 4-0 win against Mathare United but suffering a narrow 1-0 loss to Posta Rangers shortly thereafter.
As the season progressed, the team's performance remained erratic.
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06:04 - 26.12.2024
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Jackline Juma's groundbreaking leadership as Kenya’s first female FKF Premier League coach inspires inclusivity, equality, and ambition in football.
A string of draws and unexpected defeats, including a 2-0 loss to Ulinzi Stars, intensified pressure on the coaching staff.
Fan frustration boiled over in November when a section of supporters confronted Coach Trucha after the Ulinzi match, necessitating security intervention.The club condemned the incident, emphasizing that hooliganism has no place in football.
Long-time supporter Samuel Wanjala expressed the sentiments of many fans.
"We've been patient for over two decades. The club's management needs to address the underlying issues preventing us from reclaiming our former glory."
This sentiment reflects a growing impatience among the fanbase, eager for a return to the pinnacle of Kenyan football.
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16:06 - 25.12.2024
Francis Kimanzi appointed interim coach as Harambee Stars prepare for Mapinduzi Cup
Francis Kimanzi returns for a third stint as interim Harambee Stars coach, leading a fresh squad for the 2025 Mapinduzi Cup.
In response to the mounting challenges, the club made a decisive change in December, appointing Fred Ambani as interim head coach following Trucha's departure.
Ambani's tenure began positively with a 1-0 victory over Kenya Police, ending a five-game winless streak.
He outlined his ambitions, stating, "If we continue getting the right results, I do not see why not," regarding his prospects of securing the position permanently.
Despite these managerial changes, off-field issues persisted.
The club's partnership with Mafro Sports, announced with much fanfare, failed to materialize on the pitch.
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05:00 - 05.12.2024
Tomas Trucha creates tension with contradictory AFC Leopards statements
Confusion surrounds Tomas Trucha's status at AFC Leopards as conflicting statements deepen uncertainty about his coaching role.
The highly anticipated Mafro jerseys were never worn in official matches, leading to speculation and disappointment among supporters.
The lack of transparency regarding this deal further strained the relationship between the club's management and its fanbase.
As the year drew to a close, AFC Leopards found themselves mid-table, their title aspirations once again unfulfilled.
The club's leadership faces critical decisions in the upcoming transfer window and must address internal challenges to restore confidence among supporters.
The appointment of a permanent head coach, resolution of sponsorship issues, and a clear strategy to combat hooliganism are imperative for the club's future success.
Reflecting on the 2024 season, it's evident that while there were glimpses of potential, systemic issues continue to hinder AFC Leopards' progress.
The unwavering support of their fans remains a testament to the club's rich history and enduring legacy.
However, without substantive changes, the prospect of ending the now 26-year title drought remains elusive.
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