KCB players celebrate their goal against Nairobi United/HANDOUT 

KCB coach Robert Matano wants greater efficiency from his players as the bankers host Mathare United in a SportPesa League clash at Police Sacco Stadium on Saturday.

Matano is seeking a winning response after KCB were held to a 2-2 draw by league debutants Nairobi United in their opening match of the 2026/27 campaign.

Both sides will be chasing their first victory of the season in the 2pm kick-off. Mathare also began with a goalless draw against APS Bomet.

KCB sit fifth in the standings, while Mathare occupy 11th place even though they have one point each.

“We had a positive start to the season, and although we would have preferred to collect all three points, the opening match gave us valuable lessons,” Matano said.

The experienced tactician believes his side can address the weaknesses exposed against Nairobi United and deliver a stronger performance against the 2008 league champions.

“We have identified areas that need improvement, and our focus is on working collectively as a team, sharpening our performance and preparing well for Mathare United,” he said.

Matano is expected to deploy a 4-2-3-1 formation, with a compact midfield and quick transitions forming the foundation of KCB’s attack. The Bankers will also look to exploit set-pieces and use their physical presence to trouble the visitors.

“We are determined to compete for maximum points,” Matano said.

Meanwhile, Mathare coach David Ouma is working to build a competitive squad capable of holding its own against established top-flight opponents as the club settles back into the league.

Ouma has emphasised competition for places, insisting that every player must prove his worth to earn a starting role.

“Of course, I’m a coach who believes in giving every player an opportunity,” he said.

Mathare are expected to adopt a 4-3-3 formation, using width and movement in midfield to stretch KCB’s defensive structure. After failing to score against APS Bomet, the visitors will need greater sharpness in front of goal to trouble the Bankers.

“Every player will have to fight for his place. Competition within the squad will be crucial as the club prepares for its return to the Kenyan top flight,” Ouma said.

The coach also wants to restore the unity and confidence associated with the 2008 champions as they seek to re-establish themselves among the country's leading sides.

“We know the responsibility that comes with coaching Mathare United. This is a club with history, identity and a strong connection with the community,” he said.

Ouma believes rebuilding that collective spirit will be central to the club’s ambitions.

“The first thing is to bring everyone together and start working as one team. Now we want to compete better and restore confidence,” he said.

Recent meetings suggest a closely contested encounter. In their last four league meetings, Mathare have won twice, KCB once, while the other match ended in a draw.

KCB won the most recent encounter 2-1 on January 31, but Mathare will draw confidence from their 1-0 victory over the Bankers in September last year.