Ovella Ochieng’ was severley missed by AFC Leopards as they were forced to share the spoils with Murang’a Seal last Saturday.
AFC Leopards head coach Fred Ambani has underscored the significance of first-choice goalkeeper Levis Opiyo to his squad as they seek to end their prolonged trophy drought.
Opiyo’s stellar performance in the 1-1 draw against Murang’a Seal last Saturday proved instrumental in securing a crucial point for Ingwe.
Having missed the squad for the previous clash against Talanta—a match marred by goalkeeping errors from backup custodian Humphry Katrasi—Opiyo returned to the starting lineup and immediately demonstrated his value.
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Despite recent turbulence in the goalkeeping department, the former Gor Mahia shot-stopper insisted he felt no pressure stepping back into the role.
“There is no pressure at all. The goalkeeper position is very tricky. One day you’re a hero, and the next day you’re a villain. Even in elite leagues, goalkeepers sometimes make grave mistakes,” Opiyo told Pulse Sports after the match.
Opiyo was the standout performer at Nyayo Stadium, making crucial saves that ensured Leopards salvaged a draw against Murang’a Seal. Reflecting on the match, he acknowledged the areas where the team struggled and emphasized the importance of his decisive interventions.
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“We were slow, which affected us in the match. Maybe we need to be quicker in our next game, but that’s football—you accept the results. The second half was tricky. It was 1-1, a dangerous scoreline, but I had to stay alert to keep my team in the game,” he remarked.
Despite his recent heroics, Opiyo has often divided opinion among AFC Leopards supporters due to his history of high-profile errors.
One such moment came during last season’s Mashemeji Derby at Nyayo Stadium, where his mistake allowed Austine Odhiambo to score the lone goal, handing Gor Mahia victory.
However, Ambani remains steadfast in his belief in Opiyo’s abilities, reiterating his importance to the squad.
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Leopards have gathered four points from their last two games ever since their embarrasing 4-2 loss to FC Talanta earlier this month.
“He is the best goalkeeper we have at the moment, and he wants to win matches. That is why you saw the incredible goal-scoring chance he prevented—very excellent,” Ambani stated.
“The maturity in him and how he cools situations, as well as his restarts, are superb. He is a great addition to the team.”
Meanwhile, Ambani provided a positive update on forward Ovella Ochieng, who missed the match due to injury. The coach, who has emphasized Ochieng’s importance in stretching opposition defenses, remains hopeful of his return.
“I am not a doctor, but hopefully, we can have him back within the week,” Ambani assured.
As AFC Leopards continue their pursuit of silverware, the resurgence of Opiyo and the potential return of key players like Ochieng could be pivotal in shaping their season.
