By KPC Sports Correspondent
Mathare United FC and 1xBet have intensified their grassroots football push after successfully staging the third phase of the 1xBet Mtaani initiative in Mathare, drawing thousands of fans and shining a spotlight on local talent.
The event, held on Saturday at the Mathare Depot grounds, attracted over 3,000 fans and blended competitive football with mentorship and community engagement under the “Football for Good” banner.
The highlight of the day was a friendly match between Mathare United and New Mathare FC, with the “Slum Boys” edging the encounter 1-0 courtesy of a 30th-minute free-kick strike by Daglas Mokaya.
Beyond the result, the initiative focused on nurturing the next generation of footballers.
Mathare United players, led by assistant coach Gabriel “Kingi” Njoroge alongside Steve Kimari and Robert Mboya, engaged young players in mentorship sessions—sharing insights on professional football and life beyond the pitch.
Kimari, who grew up in Mathare, described the experience as deeply personal. “I’m overwhelmed by emotions to come back to this pitch where I used to play barefoot as a kid. Back then, it was our dream to play for Mathare United, so coming back here as a player means a lot,” he said.
“It’s a big inspiration for these players getting to interact and play with us… we should have more of such initiatives to give hope to the upcoming players.”
Coach Njoroge echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the historical significance of the venue and the promise shown by the young players.
“This pitch is so important in the history of Mathare United because it’s where the club was born… I’m so impressed by the talent I’ve seen. If they keep focus, these boys can play in established leagues in Europe,” he said.
The initiative also delivered tangible support, with New Mathare FC receiving a full set of football equipment including balls, training bibs, cones, agility ladders, and goal nets—resources aimed at strengthening grassroots development.
New Mathare captain Jeremiah Ochieng’ welcomed the opportunity despite the defeat.
“We might have lost the match but we have gained a lot today… it’s very rare for a Premier League team to come down to this level. This experience will go a long way in encouraging the team,” he said.
A representative from 1xBet underscored the broader vision behind the project. “We believe that football is more than a game—it is a platform for opportunity, unity, and growth in communities like Mathare… this project is about mentorship, empowerment, and leaving a lasting impact.”
The 1xBet Mtaani initiative continues to bridge the gap between elite football and grassroots passion, offering young players not just exposure, but a pathway—turning the dusty pitches of Mathare into arenas of hope and possibility.