In an exhilarating league encounter at Tumaini Primary School on 1 May 2025, Hope Sportiff FC secured a convincing 3-1 victory against VVIP FC. The match kicked off at 4:00pm, and the home side showcased their attacking prowess, with Luis Nito emerging as the standout performer of the match.
Hope Sportiff FC lined up in a 4-3-3 formation, designed to maximise their attacking potential while maintaining a solid defensive structure. Hillary Akhura took his place in goal, shielded by a back four consisting of Benson Kimani on the right, Isaac Odhiambo and George Karanja in central defence, and Rota Dan on the left. Derrick Onsongo operated as the lone central midfielder, tasked with linking defence and attack. The attacking trio featured John Kitheka on the right, Lewis Owino on the left, and Jean-Claude Kika leading the line alongside striker Bryce Njama, with Luis Nito positioned as the left forward.
The substitutes for Hope Sportiff FC included Prince Gicharu, Wayne Karonji, and Elvis Maina, who would later play pivotal roles in the match.
The opening goal came in the 16th minute when Jean-Claude Kika displayed remarkable skill, weaving through the VVIP defence before slotting home a close-range effort with his right foot. This early strike set the tone for the match, igniting the home crowd and giving Hope Sportiff FC a deserved lead.
However, just three minutes later, VVIP FC responded with an equaliser in the 19th minute. A defensive mistake from Hope Sportiff allowed the visitors to capitalise, and they found the net from close range, levelling the score at 1-1. The match was finely poised as both teams sought to gain the upper hand.
As the first half progressed, both sides had their chances, but neither could find the breakthrough before the referee signalled for half-time at the 45-minute mark, leaving the score level.
The second half saw tactical changes from Hope Sportiff FC, beginning with the introduction of Prince Gicharu for Bryce Njama in the 65th minute. This substitution aimed to bolster the midfield and enhance their attacking options.
Just a minute later, in the 66th minute, Hope Sportiff FC regained the lead through Luis Nito. After a well-timed long pass from Isaac Odhiambo, Nito executed a delightful lob over the VVIP goalkeeper, restoring the home side's advantage with a close-range finish.
The momentum continued to swing in favour of Hope Sportiff FC, and in the 73rd minute, Nito struck again. This time, he received a short pass from John Kitheka and, with deft precision, lobbed the ball into the net, extending the lead to 3-1. Nito's brace showcased his clinical finishing and solidified his status as the player of the match.
In the 69th minute, Wayne Karonji replaced Benson Kimani, further enhancing the team's tactical flexibility. As the match approached its conclusion, Elvis Maina came on for Jean-Claude Kika in the 85th minute, ensuring fresh legs were on the pitch as Hope Sportiff FC sought to maintain their lead.
Despite VVIP FC's attempts to mount a comeback, Hope Sportiff FC's defence held firm, and the match concluded with a 3-1 victory for the home side. The win not only boosts Hope Sportiff FC's league standing but also highlights their attacking capabilities, with Luis Nito's performance being a particular highlight.
