AFC Leopards face Tusker in KPL Top 8 tournament

Defending Kenyan Premier League Top 8 Cup Champions Tusker will face AFC Leopards in a pick of the ties for the fifth edition that kicks-off on September 26.

The two clubs have been drawn against each other in a repeat of last year’s final at Kinoru Stadium, where the brewers successfully retained the Cup after beating Ingwe 2-1.

In a draw conducted yesterday, at a Nairobi Hotel, KPL defending champions and 2012 Top 8 winners Gor Mahia will lock horns with Muhoroni Youth, while inaugural winners Ulinzi Stars take on Sony Sugar as Sofapaka battle with Chemelil Sugar.

The eight teams were separated into two pots according to last season’s position, with the first four sides seeded.

The finals of this year’s edition dubbed ‘Road to Kisumu’ will be staged on November 1 at the Moi Stadium, Kisumu. The winners will pocket Sh1 million with the golden boot winner also rewarded.

Tusker assistant coach Leonard Odipo said: “It is a tricky but interesting draw as we are meeting them (AFC) again so soon after last season’s final. Every team wants to win and we are not an exception. We are looking forward to defend the Cup.”

Having failed to challenge for the KPL title this year, Leopards Organising Secretary and Legend Peter Lichungu said Top 8 and GOtv Shield represent their remaining realistic chance to win silverware this season.