BETTING GUIDE: KCB FC vs Mathare United, match preview, team news, tactical preview and betting guide
.jpg)
.jpg)
Reading Time: 4min | Fri. 26.09.25. | 14:01
KCB’s tactical discipline and ability to capitalize on opponents’ errors make them dangerous, particularly against a Mathare side still finding their rhythm.
KCB and Mathare United FC face off in a much-anticipated clash on Friday, 26 September at the Kasarani Annex, with both sides looking to build momentum early in the 2025/26 FKF Premier League.
KCB come into the fixture full of confidence, following a solid 2-0 win over Tusker FC, while Mathare United are eager to bounce back after a narrow 2-1 defeat to Posta Rangers.
Follow Our WhatsApp channel for more news.
KCB currently sit fourth on the table with three points, opening their season in impressive fashion by beating Tusker FC.
They showed defensive solidity and a well-coordinated attack, spearheaded by the likes of Boniface Omondi, who netted both goals.
Their fluid wing play, high pressing, and use of long throws were key weapons in that victory.
Players like December Kisakah, Richard Omondi and the experienced Humphrey Mieno are expected to be crucial again, especially in dominating midfield battles and maintaining attacking width.
KCB’s tactical discipline and ability to capitalize on opponents’ errors make them dangerous, particularly against a Mathare side still finding their rhythm.
Mathare United’s season started on the wrong foot with a 2-1 loss to Posta Rangers, in a match where individual defensive lapses proved costly.
Posta’s first goal was a scrappy finish from a rebounded effort off the post – a moment of defensive inaction that summed up their evening. Mathare conceded the second from open play after being parted open by some good interplay between the Posta attackers.
Despite the loss, Mathare showed promise.
They dominated possession (54%) and displayed spells of fluid, attacking football.
Midfielder Elly Asieche stood out, orchestrating play alongside the experienced Brian Ochieng, who dropped deep to aid in buildup and defensive transitions.
However, Mathare’s inability to turn possession into clear-cut chances was glaring.
Forwards Junior Nyawir and Brian Ouru were wasteful in front of goal, and despite quality deliveries from Paul Kinyanjui on the right wing, the final third lacked composure and decisiveness.
Head coach John Kamau started the Posta game in a 4-2-4 setup, which later evolved into a 4-4-2 and eventually a more attacking 3-3-4 in the final minutes as they chased the game.
That tactical flexibility could be key against KCB, but execution will be critical.
In terms of injuries, Mathare may still be without key forward Musa Masika, who remains doubtful after missing the opening match.
Musa's absence is a big blow, as he was their top goal-scoring outlet last season.
Mathare are missing Erickson Mulu, who transferred to Bandari FC, and while his replacement Herit Mungai (signed from Talanta FC) had a decent debut, he lacked impact and was subbed off. Mathare will be hoping Mungai fits in faster.
Mathare’s defense will need to stay switched on for the full 90 minutes, especially in dealing with KCB’s relentless wing play and aerial threats.
The physical presence of Humphrey Mieno in midfield will test Mathare, while the long throw-ins and set-piece routines from KCB could spell danger.
Mathare must also find more fluency in the final third. While their build-up play has promise, the conversion rate must improve.
The likes of Kinyanjui, Nyawir, and Asieche will be key in unlocking KCB’s defense.
In their last 24 encounters, KCB and Mathare United have produced a fairly balanced rivalry, with KCB winning 10 matches, Mathare 6, and 8 ending in draws.
The average goals per match stands at 2.33.
Their most recent clash ended in a 1-1 draw on 26 February 2025.
Key Pointers
Since 2023, games between these two teams have not missed a goal.
Notably, each of the past four games has seen under 2.5 goals scored, reflecting a trend of tight, cautious contests between the two sides.
Given the attacking intent both teams have shown, and the defensive vulnerabilities Mathare displayed against Posta, an over 1.5 bet looks promising.
KCB’s wing play and pressing should yield chances, but Mathare, driven by Asieche’s and the creativity of the likes of Nyawir and Kinyanjui, are likely to respond.
While KCB may look stronger on paper, Mathare’s potential to grow into the season makes this a tricky fixture to call outright.
Prediction: Both Teams To Score (BTTS)
Disclaimer: Whilst we do our utmost to offer good advice and information, we cannot be held responsible for any loss that may be incurred as a result of gambling.
