AFC Leopards will be subjected to yet another litmus test on Sunday March 31 when they will tackle little-known Bungoma Superstars in Sportpesa Shield round of 16 action.
Leopards, former holders of the domestic cup title, started their campaign in bullish mood after demolishing hapless Transfoc FC
from Kitale 4-0 at Bukhungu Stadium.
The winner of the tournament will represent Kenya in the Caf Confederation Cup and walk away with a KSh2 million cash prize.
Ingwe coach, Casa Mbungo, must guard an unbeaten record spanning three
games.The game might appear to be an easy undertaking for the 13-time Kenyan champions but in football, anything can happen, especially in knock-out tournaments.
“We respect every team in the tournament. We can’t afford to underrate any side. We are taking this tournament very seriously,” said the tactician.
“There is a lot at stake, and the players want to play in continental matches so we are all working towards winning it.”
On paper, Leopards, who will be without defender Moses Mburu, remain match favourites; boosted by the return of midfield duo of Ezekiel Seda and Tsuma Said who have been away for two
months with injuries.
The presence of experienced defender David “Cheche” Ochieng will also serve as an added advantage for Ingwe in the backline.
Tsuma picked his injury in training a week before the SportPesa Cup in Tanzania in January, while Seda was ruled out after picking an ankle injury in the 4-1 defeat to Bandari in early February.
while KPL side KCB plays Vihiga Sportiff in Machakos while Lower-tier league sides Bidco United and Dero will face off in Thika.
