Makwata Haunts Former Club as Mathare Finally Taste Victory

John Mark Makwata could not have scripted a better start to life at Mathare United. On his debut, the experienced striker struck the decisive blow from the penalty spot to hand the Slum Boys a hard-earned 1-0 win over Ulinzi Stars in an FKF Premier League Matchweek 17 clash played at Kasarani Annex on Friday afternoon.

The victory ended Mathare’s run of defeats and delivered their first win of the new year, pushing them up to 11th place on the table with 21 points. For Ulinzi, the struggles continued as their winless start to 2026 stretched on, leaving the soldiers sitting 14th and just three points above the relegation places.

Mathare started with intent and almost took an early lead in the third minute when Makwata met his first clear chance, firing just over Timothy Odhiambo’s crossbar. The hosts looked lively, with new signing Mike Oduor dictating play and sending in dangerous deliveries that kept Ulinzi’s backline on edge.

The match remained cagey for much of the opening half, but the turning point arrived in the 35th minute. Oduor slipped a clever pass into Makwata inside the area, and as the striker tried to swivel, he was clipped by Bonventure Muchika. Referee Josephine Wanjiku had no doubts and pointed straight to the spot.

Makwata showed his composure, sending Odhiambo the wrong way to give Mathare the lead. His celebration, brief but pointed, hinted at unfinished business against a club he once served.

Ulinzi responded with urgency. Staphod Odhiambo and youngster Joseph Nyale both threatened before the break, but goalkeeper Kevin Ouru stood tall to preserve Mathare’s advantage heading into halftime.

The soldiers emerged with renewed energy after the restart. Coach Stephen Ocholla introduced Edward Odhiambo, who was presented with a golden opportunity after neat work from Boniface Muchiri, only to waste it. Bildad Abonga then tried his luck from distance, but his effort drifted wide.

As Ulinzi pushed forward, Ouru grew in stature, producing key saves to deny Paul Okoth and Brian Birgen. Tempers flared late on, leading to a brief confrontation between players, but Mathare remained disciplined and focused on seeing out the result.

The hosts nearly sealed the game when Dennis Okoth rattled the post, and Ouru capped a fine afternoon by keeping out Muchiri’s late free-kick. When the final whistle sounded, Mathare had done just enough to claim all three points and spark belief after recent transfer activity.

For Ulinzi Stars, the defeat once again underlined their ongoing problems in front of goal, a concern they will need to address quickly as the battle at the bottom of the table tightens.