AFC Leopards suffered defeat in a pre-season friendly fixture against National Super League side FC Talanta. In an entertaining match played at the Kenya Technical Trainers College grounds, Leopards manager Cassa Mbungo fielded a strong side but could not get past a spirited FC Talanta.
Brian Juma got the all-important goal in the first half capitalizing on an error from Ingwe’s center back Christopher Oruchum after only 15 minutes of play. Talanta were clearly the better side in the opening period but AFC Leopards should have gone into the break on level terms had new signing Ismaila Diarra not missed 2 free headers from point-blank range.
Vincent Wanda and Eugene Mukhangula both hit the post for Leopards in the second half. It was the first pre-season loss for Cassa Mbungo’s side who beat St.Peters Mumias School 2-0 in their first pre-season match two weeks ago.
AFC Leopards have been busy in the transfer market having already signed 7 new players. Tresor Ndikumana, Hansel Ochieng, Robert Ayala, Soter Kayumba, Vincent Habamahoro, Ismaila Diarra and Benjamin Ochan have been confirmed as new arrivals at the Den.
Tusker FC defender Collins Shivachi is also rumored to be close to completing a deal to the club after pictures emerged of him training with Cassa Mbungo’s side.
Leopards finished in 11th position last season with 43 points.