Mathare United Women FC welcomed Sunderland Samba to the MYSA Headquarters on 4th December 2024 for a league home match that kicked off at 1:00pm. In a closely contested affair, Mathare United emerged victorious with a scoreline of 2-1, showcasing their resilience and tactical prowess.
The home side adopted a 4-4-1-1 formation, which allowed them to maintain a solid defensive structure while also providing support for their attacking play. Olive Otwaro stood firm in goal, with a back four comprising Dora Achieng on the right, Phanice Odari on the left, and the central defensive partnership of Brenda Atieno and Marline Atieno. In midfield, Veronica Nyambura and Beverlyne Awuor operated on the flanks, while Immaculate Awuor and Seline Achieng controlled the central areas. Jerrine Adhiambo played just behind the lone striker, Iddah Adhiambo, who was tasked with leading the line and converting chances into goals.
The match began with an early attempt from Veronica Nyambura, whose effort sailed high over the bar just a minute in, signalling Mathare's intent. However, it was Iddah Adhiambo who opened the scoring in the fourth minute, tapping in a well-placed cross from Dora Achieng, putting the home side ahead early on.
As the first half progressed, Nyambura continued to impress, making a key flicked pass in the 18th minute that created a chance for her teammates. Brenda Atieno then tested the Sunderland Samba goalkeeper with a shot in the 22nd minute, but it was saved. The visitors equalised in the 30th minute, capitalising on a defensive mistake from Mathare United, with a right-footed strike that found the back of the net.
Despite the setback, Mathare United responded positively, and in the 34th minute, Veronica Nyambura restored their lead with a close-range tap-in, assisted by Iddah Adhiambo's cross. The home side continued to press, with Iddah Adhiambo having another shot saved shortly after, as they sought to extend their advantage.
As the half drew to a close, Beverlyne Awuor made a long pass in the 42nd minute that created yet another opportunity, but the first half ended with Mathare United leading 2-1.
The second half saw Iddah Adhiambo remain a constant threat, although her attempts in the 57th and 69th minutes went wide of the target. In the 73rd minute, Beverlyne Awuor received a yellow card for a bad tackle, a moment that added tension to the match.
In the 75th minute, a substitution was made as Stella Makokha replaced the injured Nyambura, followed by Faith Atieno coming on for Makokha in the 83rd minute, a tactical change aimed at maintaining the lead.
As the match approached its conclusion, Jerrine Adhiambo made a crucial long pass in the 85th minute, creating another chance for Mathare United. Faith Atieno nearly added to the scoreline in the 86th minute, hitting the post with a powerful effort that left the crowd gasping.
Ultimately, Mathare United held on to their lead, securing a vital three points in the league. Iddah Adhiambo's performance was particularly noteworthy, earning her the title of Player of the Match for her influential role in the victory. The win not only boosts Mathare United's confidence but also solidifies their position in the league as they look forward to future challenges.
