Kibarani United FC faced off against Tigers FC in a friendly match held at the Wayani Grounds venue on 8 May 2025, kicking off at 4:00pm. The match concluded with Kibarani United securing a convincing 3-1 victory, showcasing their attacking prowess and solid defensive organisation throughout the encounter.
Kibarani United lined up in a 4-3-3 formation, a tactical setup designed to maximise width and fluidity in attack while maintaining a robust defensive structure. Bicky Bakari took his position in goal, shielded by a back four comprising Mendy on the right, Yobra Obizo and Gabu as central defenders, and Brian Owino on the left. The midfield trio featured Joram Kimathi on the right, Ndegwa in the centre, and Conteh Ombongi on the left, providing both creativity and stability. Up front, Joggy operated on the right wing, Deluka was positioned centrally as the striker, and Thomas occupied the left forward role, tasked with stretching the opposition defence and creating goal-scoring opportunities.
The match began with Kibarani United asserting their dominance early on. In the 14th minute, Mendy delivered a long pass that created a significant chance, setting the tone for the attacking intent that would follow. Just a minute later, Joggy capitalised on a defensive mistake, scoring with his right foot after receiving a precise long pass from Mendy, putting Kibarani United ahead 1-0.
The momentum continued as Joram Kimathi showcased his playmaking abilities with a clever flick in the 24th minute, leading to another chance. Shortly thereafter, in the 25th minute, Conteh Ombongi doubled the lead, finishing from close range after a short pass from Kimathi, making it 2-0.
However, Tigers FC responded just before half-time. In the 41st minute, they found the back of the net following a defensive error, scoring from outside the box with a right-footed strike, narrowing the deficit to 2-1. Despite this setback, Kibarani United managed to regain their composure and struck back immediately. In the 44th minute, Thomas scored from close range, assisted by another flick from Kimathi, restoring the two-goal cushion and sending Kibarani into the break with a 3-1 lead.
The second half saw Kibarani United maintain their control of the game. Bicky Bakari demonstrated his goalkeeping skills early on, making a punch clearance in the 50th minute. Joram Kimathi continued to be a pivotal figure, providing another flick in the 56th minute, although this time it did not lead to a chance.
Deluka had a chance to extend the lead in the 57th minute, but his attempt was saved. As the match progressed, Kibarani's defence remained resolute, with Mendy making a crucial defensive intervention in the 79th minute to prevent a potential goal.
In the closing stages, Joram Kimathi was again involved, making a key pass in the 82nd minute that created a chance. Deluka had another opportunity in the 83rd minute, but his shot went wide. Mendy continued to impress, making a vital block in the 90th minute to deny Tigers FC a chance to reduce the deficit further.
As the match entered injury time, Joram Kimathi delivered yet another long pass that created a chance, showcasing his exceptional vision and playmaking ability. Brian Owino had a final attempt in the 91st minute, but his shot was saved, ensuring Kibarani United's 3-1 victory remained intact.
Joram Kimathi's outstanding performance earned him the accolade of Player of the Match, as he consistently created opportunities and contributed significantly to Kibarani United's success. The match concluded with Kibarani United FC celebrating a well-deserved win, reflecting their preparation and teamwork ahead of the upcoming competitive fixtures.
