Ouma remains composed as Mathare United return empty-handed from Rwanda

Mathare United head coach David Ouma is refusing to be alarmed by his side’s difficult pre-season tour of Rwanda, where they failed to win or score in three matches, arguing that the tough fixtures provided exactly the kind of test he wanted ahead of the 2026/27 SportPesa League campaign.

The Slum Boys spent eight days in Rwanda and suffered narrow 1-0 defeats against APR FC and Gorilla FC before going down 3-0 to Rayon Sports.

“There is nothing to panic about. This is our expectation at this moment,” Ouma said.

After dedicating five weeks to preparations at home, Ouma deliberately took his squad to Rwanda for more demanding opposition, believing difficult matches would reveal weaknesses that could still be addressed before the competitive season begins.

The coach said the quality of the opponents offered valuable insight as he works to rebuild a Mathare side that ended last season in 14th position.

“We took a big courage to come and play these games,” he said, adding that the Rwandan sides “really, really given us the test that we needed.”

APR and Rayon Sports had recently competed in the Cecafa Kagame Cup, while Gorilla also provided strong opposition, allowing Ouma to measure his players against teams accustomed to a higher level of intensity.

The Mathare coach believes the club's history, including its previous presence in continental competitions, should inspire a stronger performance as they attempt to put last season's difficulties behind them.

“I think getting this opportunity to come (to Rwanda) and test my team after doing a five-week pre-season in our country was very bold enough for us,” Ouma said.

The tour nevertheless exposed two major areas requiring attention, with Mathare struggling to find the net while also conceding too many goals.

Ouma acknowledged that improving the team's attacking output will be an immediate priority, while defensive organisation must also be strengthened.

“We have not made a goal,” Ouma admitted. “The reality is, am I contented with our attacking prowess?”

The shortcomings have not, however, changed his view of the value of the trip. Instead, he regards the difficulties as part of the learning process that pre-season is intended to provide.

Mathare have also been active in reshaping their squad under Ouma, with experienced left-back Evans Maliachi arriving from Kakamega Homeboyz and veteran midfielder Joshua Nyatini expected to join the club.

“Sometimes, as a coach, it's better you lose in the pre-season, but in the league, you make sure you put your feet on the ground,” he said.

Mathare now have limited time to work on the weaknesses identified in Rwanda before beginning their league campaign against APS Bomet on August 29.