Mathare Coach Salim Ali Wary Of Lowly Zoo Despite Unblemished Record

NAIROBI, Kenya- Mathare United FC coach Salim Ali has urged his team to remain wary of their next opponents Zoo FC despite having never lost a game against them in the Kenyan Premier League (KPL).

Mathare are fresh off a narrow 2-1 win against Kariobangi Sharks FC in the highly anticipated Slum Derby last Sunday courtesy of goals by Kevin Kimani and Daniel Otieno.

The win, a second in five games for Mathare, kept them in 10th place on the KPL standings with 24 points after 16 matches.

“Our next game against Zoo will conclude our first leg fixtures and even though we have never lost against them in the league, it is going to be a very tough match,” the tactician stated.

Mathare have two-week break before the crunch midweek tie against Zoo slated for Wednesday, January 29 at 3pm.

Their opponents Zoo are currently on a four-match losing streak, having not registered a win since a convincing 3-0 thrashing of newcomers Kisumu All Stars FC on December 1, 2019.

“We will use this time off to recollect and ensure that we are well prepared for the match.

“A friendly or two could be on the cards as well as we prepare to face Zoo and continue to seek a higher placement on the very competitive league table,” Ali stated.

Ali took over the reins at the 2008 champions Mathare after veteran head coach Francis Kimanzi left his post to take over as coach of the national team, Harambee Stars.