Mathare United Women FC welcomed Gaspo Women FC to the MYSA Headquarters on 5th February 2025 for a league encounter that promised excitement and delivered just that, with the home side emerging victorious with a scoreline of 2-1. The match kicked off at 1:00pm, and a spirited crowd of fans witnessed a contest filled with drama, tactical shifts, and standout performances.
Mathare United lined up in a 4-4-1-1 formation, designed to provide a solid defensive base while allowing for quick transitions into attack. Olive Otwaro took her place in goal, shielded by a back four comprising Dora Achieng on the right, Marline Atieno on the left, and the central defensive partnership of Brenda Atieno and Clare Meris. The midfield was structured with Veronica Nyambura and Beverlyne Awuor operating on the flanks, while Immaculate Awuor and Seline Achieng held the central positions. Jerrine Adhiambo played just behind striker Iddah Adhiambo, who was tasked with leading the line and converting chances into goals.
As the first half unfolded, both teams struggled to find their rhythm, with the midfield battle proving pivotal. However, the deadlock was broken shortly after the interval. Just two minutes into the second half, Gaspo Women struck first with a stunning long-range effort that flew past Otwaro, putting the visitors ahead 1-0. The goal, scored with a right-footed shot from outside the box, sent shockwaves through the Mathare camp.
In response to going behind, Mathare United made immediate tactical changes, bringing on Faith Atieno for Beverlyne Awuor and Vivian Adhiambo for Immaculate Awuor at the start of the second half. These substitutions injected fresh energy into the side as they sought to regain control of the match.
Iddah Adhiambo, however, found herself in the referee's book shortly thereafter, receiving a yellow card in the 53rd minute for persistent infringements, a sign of the mounting pressure on Mathare to respond.
The breakthrough finally came in the 61st minute when Jerrine Adhiambo levelled the score for Mathare United. She found the net from close range, demonstrating poise and precision inside the box, much to the delight of the home supporters. The equaliser shifted the momentum firmly in favour of Mathare.
As the match progressed, Mathare continued to press for a winner, and their efforts bore fruit in the 75th minute. Veronica Nyambura, who had been a constant threat down the right flank, scored a sensational long-range strike with her right foot, assisted by Judith Atieno's clever short pass. This goal not only put Mathare ahead but also showcased Nyambura's skill and determination, earning her the Player of the Match accolade.
In the final stages, Mathare made another substitution, with Faria Ngadira replacing Clare Meris in the 80th minute, as they aimed to solidify their lead and see out the match.
Despite Gaspo's attempts to find an equaliser, Mathare United held firm, demonstrating resilience and tactical discipline. The final whistle confirmed a hard-fought 2-1 victory for the home side, a result that will be cherished by the players and supporters alike as they continue their campaign in the league.
