RWAFA Football Club faced off against FC Bumbani Stars in a closely contested friendly match at the Nyumba Sita Stadium on 17 October 2024, with the game ending in a 1-1 draw. The match kicked off at 3:20pm, showcasing both teams' tactical approaches and individual talents.
RWAFA adopted a 4-2-3-1 formation, which allowed them to maintain a solid defensive line while providing ample support for their attacking players. In goal, Hassan Shee was tasked with safeguarding the net, while Ali Koi and Mohammed Ghazal occupied the right and left defensive flanks, respectively. Central defenders Awali Dzengo and Hassan Ganzori provided stability at the back. The midfield was anchored by Ashraf Gomba and Mohammed Omar, who were expected to control the tempo of the game. Ahead of them, Shabani Mwachozi and Masudi Bokoko operated as right and left attacking midfielders, with Bakari Chonga playing centrally behind the lone striker, Yassir Ngare.
The substitutes for RWAFA included Hamidu Tabwara, Mwinyi Cheupe, Abdillah Mwakombo, Hassan Zumo, Suleiman Ndonga, Salim Makame, and Abdulkarim Mwendo, who would be called upon as the match progressed.
The match began with an explosive start as Masudi Bokoko capitalised on a defensive mistake from FC Bumbani Stars just three minutes in, slotting the ball home from close range with his right foot to give RWAFA an early lead. This goal set the tone for an engaging first half, where RWAFA looked to build on their advantage.
However, the match took a turn for RWAFA in the 38th minute when Mohammed Ghazal had to be substituted due to injury, with Hamidu Tabwara coming on to replace him. This change disrupted the rhythm slightly, but RWAFA managed to maintain their composure until half-time, leading 1-0.
As the second half commenced, RWAFA made a tactical substitution in the 54th minute, bringing on Mwinyi Cheupe for Masudi Bokoko. This change aimed to inject fresh energy into the midfield and maintain their attacking threat.
In the 62nd minute, Abdillah Mwakombo replaced Yassir Ngare, further altering the dynamics of the RWAFA attack. Despite their efforts, FC Bumbani Stars began to find their footing and equalised in the 73rd minute. A well-placed shot from inside the box found the back of the net, leaving Hassan Shee with little chance to react.
The equaliser prompted RWAFA to make immediate tactical adjustments, with Bakari Chonga making way for Hassan Zumo in the 73rd minute, followed by Suleiman Ndonga replacing Awali Dzengo just a minute later. These substitutions were aimed at bolstering the midfield and defence as RWAFA sought to regain control of the match.
As the game approached its final stages, RWAFA continued to shuffle their lineup, with Abdillah Mwakombo making way for Salim Makame in the 82nd minute, and Mwinyi Cheupe being substituted for Abdulkarim Mwendo shortly after. Despite these changes, RWAFA struggled to find a breakthrough, and the match ultimately concluded in a stalemate.
Both teams displayed commendable performances, with RWAFA Football Club showcasing their attacking prowess early on, while FC Bumbani Stars demonstrated resilience to fight back and secure a draw. The friendly served as a valuable exercise for both sides as they prepare for their upcoming fixtures.
