Mombasa United rally from behind to go top with a victory over MCF

The hosts recovered from an early setback thanks to goals from James Onyango, Juma Mwajao, and Abdallah Swaleh, overturning MCF’s opener by John Omondi.

MCF got off to a dream start in the 3rd minute when John Omondi scored a stunning long-range effort from the centre circle, catching Mombasa United goalkeeper Kevin Tila off guard.

Just four minutes later, Mombasa United nearly equalised, but Hakimu Msami missed a clear chance from close range, sending his effort just over the bar.

In the 33rd minute, United were awarded a penalty after Wambua Ndolo was penalised for a handball inside the box. Denis Toeri stepped up to take it, but his effort was comfortably saved by MCF goalkeeper Brian Omondi.

Mombasa United eventually found their equaliser in the 44th minute through James Onyango, who capitalised on a loose ball in the six-yard box and fired a low shot past the keeper.

During stoppage time in the first half, United continued to press for a second goal, with attempts from Fidel Omondi, Jackson Watee, and David Mayson, but they were unable to find the target, heading into halftime level.

After the break, Mombasa United returned with renewed intensity, pushing forward in search of a winner, though chances from Jackson Watee and Samuel Atta went begging.

Their persistence paid off in the 69th minute when defender Juma Mwajao gave them the lead with a simple tap-in after Hakimu Msami’s 20-yard shot was parried by goalkeeper Omondi.

In the 78th minute, substitute Abdallah Swaleh sealed the win in style, scoring with his first touch, a powerful 25-yard strike that extended United’s led to 3-1.

MCF introduced substitutes Ezekiel Okare and John Ochieng in an attempt to mount a comeback, but they were unable to break down United’s defence, as the match ended 3-1 at Mombasa Sports Club.

Speaking after the match, Mombasa United head coach Gilbert Selebwa welcomed the result despite his team conceding early.

"The bottom-placed teams are dangerous to play, but we planned the whole week that they would go on a low block, but I'm happy we kept our faith, our game plan, and we managed to get the win," Gilbert Selebwa.

MCF head coach Francis Chege praised his players’ effort, highlighting their strong start.

"We played well, the first 30 minutes we played like a top team and we scored a goal, which I can say is a goal of the season, but we feel that the referee's decision is the reason we lost today," Francis Chege said.