Mathare United head coach John Kamau has set his sights on a top-six finish as the Slum Boys gear up for a competitive 2025/26 FKF Premier League campaign.
Last season, the slum boys finished 10th in the League, having amassed 42 points from 34 League outings. Kamau, however, believes the squad is ready to swap survival scraps for an assault on the upper reaches of the table this new season.
"I am a very confident coach, last season I said Mathare will not drop from the Premier League and we did not we exceeded our targets and finished 10th."
"With good motivation, this team can challenge for a top six finish this season, provided the management motivates the team," Kamau stated. Kamau admitted that the 2024/25 campaign was all about clinging onto their top-flight status, but promised a different mindset this term.
"Last season, we were working on survival; all our training sessions were tailor-made for survival. Expect a very competitive season from us," he said. The Slum Boys face a baptism of fire in their opening five League fixtures.
They kick off with a home fixture against Posta Rangers on September 22 at the Kasarani Annex. Four days later, they have a tough encounter against KCB at the Ulinzi Sports Complex before clashing with Tusker on October 1 at the Kasarani Annex. A fiery Slum Derby against Kariobangi Sharks follows on October 5, before a trip to Gusii Stadium to face Shabana on October 20.
Pre-season preparations are already in full swing, with Kamau pleased by the early signs. "We have had two weeks of pre-season training and I am happy with the several players we have brought on board," he added.
Last week, Mathare played a pre-season friendly match against Division Two side Kirigiti Community at the Goan Institute, winning 4-1. Kamau, however, stated that it's still too early to judge the squad just from the one friendly.
"It's still early to judge or read anything from that match. However, being a low-level match, I am happy because some players were able to clock 40 minutes, which is a good sign and a progression from last season."
Consistency will be Kamau’s main focus ahead of kick-off. "We want to make every player consistent, like Musa Masika, last season he scored 10 goals and we want him to double that this season," he noted.
Defensive solidity and sharper finishing are also top of the agenda.
"Last season, we conceded many goals, almost 40. We are working on solidifying the back line and reducing that by half."
"I was also not happy with our finish in the final third last season, and we want to improve that," he added.
