NAIROBI, Kenya, Apr 10 – Ojo Olaniyi scored an 89th minute winner as AFC Leopards came from a goal down to beat Wazito FC 2-1 at the Thika Sub-County Get the latest local and international sports updates, football, rugby, athletics, golf, cricket and more
He literally carried us in the first leg, and [on Saturday] he showed his worth again with great saves that kept us in the game. He deserves to be where he is and even at the national team, he deserves that number one jersey. I have to appreciate my players for their hard work and dedication. We had time to reflect on the first leg when football was suspended and an advantage too of watching the first week as football resumed and we set a clear path that we want to follow.
The tactician has further exuded his confidence, the four-time champions will perform well in the second round of the competition after struggles in the first one.
Austin Odhiambo tried a long-range shot in the 15th minute but his effort went wide with Posta Rangers remaining impervious at the back.
The home side almost opened the scoring in the 21st minute but Francis Nambute’s six-yard shot was superbly stopped by AFC Leopards’ Benjamin Ochan.
When Isaac Kipyegon was red-carded in the 49th minute, AFC Leopards made two changes to reinforce the backline as Hanel Ochiueng and Robinson Kamura replaced Bienvenue Shaka and Caleb Olilo.
Three corners – that came as a result of late pressure on Posta Rangers – were unable to earn AFC Leopards the much-needed goal.
Ulinzi Stars’ first clear chance came in the 32nd minute, but Masita Masuta sent his effort wide to deny the composed Soldiers an opener.
Stars’ head coach Benjamin Nyangweso made a first change in the 55th minute when he withdrew Elvis Nandwa for Oscar Wamalwa. Five minutes later, the Nakuru outfit failed to break the deadlock again as Brian Birgen’s ferocious strike was stopped by Brian Bwire in the Sharks’ goal.
There were two late changes by Nyangweso; as Ibrahim Shambi replaced Daniel Waweru while Masita s place was filled by Clinton Omondi. However, they did not bring about much impact, as the two sides shared the spoils from the stalemate.