Mathare United Women FC 3 vs 1 Hildana Queens FC

Mathare United Women FC hosted Hildana Queens FC at the MYSA Headquarters on 28 March 2026, kicking off at 2:00pm in a keenly contested league fixture. Despite conceding an early goal, Mathare United Women FC rallied to secure a 3-1 victory in front of their spectators, showcasing resilience and attacking flair over the 90 minutes.

Mathare United Women lined up in a 4-4-1-1 formation, designed to balance defensive solidity with midfield creativity and attacking support. Valentine Khwaka guarded the goal, while the defensive line featured Veronica Nyambura at right back, Marline Atieno and Nestley Nanjala as central defenders, and Dora Achieng on the left. The midfield quartet comprised Faith Atieno on the right, Sharon Juma and Seline Achieng centrally, and Iddah Adhiambo on the left. Jerrine Adhiambo operated just behind the lone striker, Sylvia Otieno, tasked with linking play and creating chances. Mitshel Waithera and Melissa Akinyi came in as substitutes.

The match began with a shock as Hildana Queens FC took the lead inside two minutes. From a direct free-kick outside the box, the opponents’ right-footed strike found the net, leaving goalkeeper Khwaka with no chance. This early setback tested Mathare United’s resolve, but the team maintained composure and stuck to their tactical plan.

Throughout the first half, Mathare United Women sought to impose their rhythm, utilising the width provided by Faith Atieno and Iddah Adhiambo to stretch the Hildana defence. The central midfield pairing of Juma and Seline Achieng worked tirelessly to regain possession and feed the attacking midfielder, Jerrine Adhiambo, who was pivotal in linking midfield and attack.

The breakthrough came shortly after the interval when Faith Atieno delivered a precise cross from the right flank to Iddah Adhiambo, who unleashed a stunning right-footed strike from inside the box. The goal was a real screamer, signalling the start of Mathare United’s comeback.

Just five minutes later, the momentum swung further in Mathare’s favour. From a corner taken by Veronica Nyambura, Faith Atieno rose to meet the ball inside the box and finished with a composed right-footed shot, putting the hosts ahead 2-1. This goal highlighted the effectiveness of the full-back’s delivery and Faith’s attacking instincts.

Mathare United continued to press, and their persistence paid off in the 69th minute. Faith Atieno once again provided a cross from the right, this time met by Iddah Adhiambo’s powerful header, extending the lead to 3-1. The header was a testament to Iddah’s aerial ability and timing, cementing her influence on the game.

In the latter stages, tactical substitutions were made to maintain the team’s shape and energy. At 75 minutes, Mitshel Waithera replaced the influential Iddah Adhiambo, while four minutes later Melissa Akinyi came on for Faith Atieno, both changes aimed at preserving the lead and freshening the midfield and wide areas.

Marline Atieno stood out throughout the match, marshaling the defence with authority and composure, earning her the player of the match accolade. Her leadership at the back was crucial in containing Hildana Queens’ attacking threats after the early goal.

Mathare United Women’s 4-4-1-1 formation proved effective, allowing them to absorb early pressure, control the midfield, and exploit wide areas to create and convert chances. The team’s ability to respond swiftly after conceding demonstrated their character and tactical discipline.

In the end, Mathare United Women FC’s 3-1 victory over Hildana Queens FC at MYSA Headquarters was a statement of intent in the league, with key contributions from their midfield and defensive units ensuring all three points were secured.