Mathare United Women FC 1 vs 0 Bandari Queens FC

Mathare United Women FC hosted Bandari Queens FC at Dandora Stadium in Nairobi on 21 February 2026, with kick-off at 4:00pm in a keenly contested league fixture. The home side emerged victorious by a narrow 1-0 margin after 90 minutes of intense football, much to the delight of their spectators in attendance.

Mathare United Women lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, a system designed to provide defensive solidity while allowing creativity and width in attack. Valentine Khwaka guarded the goal, protected by a back four consisting of Veronica Nyambura at right back, Marline Atieno and Nestley Nanjala as central defenders, and Dora Achieng on the left flank. In midfield, Seline Achieng and Sharon Juma operated as the two central midfielders, tasked with breaking up opposition play and distributing the ball effectively. Ahead of them, the attacking trio featured Gladwell Musungu on the right wing, Jerrine Adhiambo in the central attacking midfield role, and Judith Atieno on the left. Leading the line was striker Sylvia Otieno, expected to convert chances created by the midfield and wide players.

The first half unfolded with both teams probing cautiously, but Mathare United’s defensive organisation stood out. Nestley Nanjala, in particular, marshalled the central defensive area with composure and authority, earning her the player of the match accolade. The home side’s midfield duo worked tirelessly to disrupt Bandari Queens’ rhythm, while the attacking midfielders sought to link play and create openings for Otieno.

At the interval, the score remained goalless, reflecting a tight and tactical first 45 minutes. The second half saw Mathare United gradually assert more control, with the wide players Gladwell Musungu and Judith Atieno stretching the Bandari defence and delivering dangerous balls into the box.

The decisive moment arrived as Mathare United capitalised on their dominance to find the net, securing a vital goal that proved enough to claim all three points. Throughout the remainder of the match, Valentine Khwaka remained alert, making crucial saves to preserve the clean sheet. The defensive unit, led by Nanjala and Atieno, maintained their discipline to deny Bandari Queens any clear chances.

Mathare United’s victory at Dandora Stadium was a testament to their tactical discipline and defensive resilience. The 4-2-3-1 formation allowed them to control the midfield and create opportunities while remaining solid at the back. Nestley Nanjala’s commanding presence in central defence was pivotal in securing the win and ensuring the home side kept a clean sheet against a determined Bandari Queens side.