Shabana FC assistant coach Bernard Mwalala has expressed confidence as his team prepares to face AFC Leopards in a crucial FKF Premier League clash in Machakos on Sunday.With only one goal in mind—securing all three points—Mwalala and his team are eager to close the gap between themselves and their opponents.The FKF Premier League resumes this week after a one-week hiatus to accommodate the Mozzart Bet Cup round of 32 matches, which were held in various regions across the country. One of the most anticipated fixtures of match week 24 will see Shabana FC travel to Machakos to take on AFC Leopards. In the first-leg encounter, Shabana emerged victorious with a 2-1 win in Gusii, and they are determined to maintain their unbeaten record against Leopards since their promotion to the top flight last season.##NAJAVA_MECA_8773498##Speaking ahead of the game, Mwalala emphasized that Shabana will be going all out for a win, which could see them leapfrog Leopards into fifth place. Leopards currently hold the fifth position with 35 points, while Shabana is two points behind, although Ingwe has a game in hand.“Our goal is to get maximum points,” Mwalala said. “They’re ahead by two points, and we want to close that gap and overtake them. It’s a highly motivating game, and the players are excited and ready for the challenge.”However, Mwalala is fully aware that the match will not be easy, acknowledging that AFC Leopards will put up a strong fight.“Leopards are also eager for the match, and that should make it an entertaining one. We respect them—they have strong individual players and a solid team—but we’re going into this game aiming for maximum points. We’re focused on pushing toward the top,” he added.8 big omissions from Benni McCarthy’s first Harambee Stars squadDespite being nine points behind league leaders Kenya Police FC, Mwalala remains optimistic about Shabana’s title hopes, stating that the team is committed to winning every game, starting with Sunday’s match.“The title is still within reach; no one has claimed it yet. That means we need to keep securing maximum points in every match, starting with this game on Sunday. We want to stay in the title race, which remains unpredictable,” Mwalala asserted.CAF President sends urgent message to Benni McCarthy after Harambee Stars appointment [VIDEO]The coach also urged his players to approach the game calmly, stressing the importance of staying composed and treating it like any other fixture. He is counting on the support of Shabana’s fans, who are expected to turn out in large numbers in Machakos.“We encourage our players to stay relaxed, not overthink the opponent, and approach this game like any other—just play well. We know our fans will be there to support us, and that will work to our advantage,” he said.Dr Patrice Motsepe re-elected unopposed as CAF President for second termMwalala also took a moment to highlight the depth within his squad, noting that they now have a healthy selection dilemma due to the high level of performance from all players in training.“We have a selection dilemma because every player is performing so well in training. Unlike the first leg, where we lacked depth in some positions, we now have strong options across the board. It’s a good problem to have when choosing the traveling squad, far better than having limited options,” Mwalala concluded.Former Gor Mahia, AFC Leopards defender pinpoints blame for dwindling Mashemeji Derby excitement
