AFC Leopards' quest to end eight-year trophy drought comes to dissapointing halt after fans' protest
This follows a ruling by the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) regarding their abandoned match against Mara Sugar.
AFC Leopards, the 2017 FKF Cup champions, have been eliminated from the competition following a ruling by the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) regarding their abandoned match against Mara Sugar.
The elimination serves as a major blow to the club, as they were looking to end an eight-year trophy drought.
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The highly anticipated fixture on March 8 in Kisumu, was called off in the 89th minute during the round of 32 after AFC Leopards fans invaded the pitch in protest of the referee’s decision to rescind a previously awarded penalty.
Through a statement, FKF acknowledged that the match had been abandoned and that the matter was presented to the committee for a ruling.
“The FKF MozzartBet Cup Match No. 48 between Mara Sugar FC and AFC Leopards SC was scheduled to be played on Saturday, March 8, 2025, at the Jomo Kenyatta Stadium in Mamboleo, Kisumu. Following the abandonment of the match at the 89th minute, the matter was presented to the Committee for determination,” the statement reads.
The FKF Leagues and Competitions Committee deliberated and resolved as follows;
1. AFC Leopards SC fans, through their misconduct, caused the abandonment of the match after they invaded the field of play to protest against the referee's decision to rescind an earlier awarded penalty.
2. In accordance with Art. 6.4(iv) of the FKF Cup Regulations as read with Art. 3.5.6 of the Rules & Regulations governing Kenyan Football, AFC Leopards SC shall forfeit the match and the same shall be awarded to Mara Sugar FC who shall progress to the next round of the competition.
3. AFC Leopards SC be, and is hereby warned against the misconduct of their fans and be advised to come up with adequate measures to curb cases of hooliganism and violence during their matches.
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