GUANGO F.C vs XPION FC
2 - 2
12 October 2025 · THE NATIONAL DIVISION 2 LEAGUE<br>DIVISION 2
Away friendly match played on 12 October 2025.
Kicked off at 3:00 PM
2-2
vs GUANGO F.C
Away friendly match
XPION FC travelled to Muchatha Stadium on 12 October 2025 to face Guango F.C in a friendly away fixture that kicked off at 3:00pm. The match ended in a 2-2 stalemate after 90 minutes plus five minutes of extra time, providing an entertaining contest between the two sides. Referee Murichu oversaw the game in front of a modest crowd of 350 spectators.
XPION FC lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, deploying a balanced approach designed to blend defensive solidity with attacking creativity. Ezra Chege took his place between the sticks as goalkeeper, tasked with organising the backline. The defensive unit comprised Daniel Limlim at right back, Morris Murunga and Ian Matimbayi as central defenders, and Lotan Irako on the left flank. In midfield, Ismael Shimotwo and Nathan Muthoni operated as the two holding central midfielders, expected to shield the defence and initiate forward play. Ahead of them, the attacking midfield trio featured Philip Maobe on the right, Samuel Wachira centrally, and John Baraka on the left, all charged with creating chances and supporting the lone striker Kelvin Macharia.
On the bench, XPION FC had James Gachie and Marko Lukyamuzzi available as substitutes, ready to influence the game if called upon.
The match began with both teams probing cautiously, but XPION FC’s shape allowed them to control the midfield exchanges early on. The defensive pairing of Murunga and Matimbayi stood firm, with Matimbayi particularly impressive in aerial duels and interceptions. Guango F.C tested Chege on a few occasions, but the goalkeeper remained composed.
As the first half progressed, XPION FC’s attacking midfielders sought to unlock the Guango defence. John Baraka’s runs down the left and Philip Maobe’s crosses from the right created several promising openings. Samuel Wachira’s role as the central attacking midfielder was pivotal in linking play and attempting through balls to Macharia upfront.
The half concluded at 45 minutes with the XPION FC leading by a goal, reflecting a tightly contested encounter. Both sides had shown glimpses of quality but were unable to break the deadlock before the interval.
In the second half, the intensity increased as XPION FC looked to assert themselves further. However, Guango F.C responded with greater urgency, forcing Chege into some crucial saves. The midfield battle remained fierce, with Shimotwo and Muthoni working tirelessly to disrupt Guango’s rhythm.
At the 75th minute mark, XPION FC made a double tactical substitution to inject fresh energy and alter the dynamic. James Gachie replaced striker Kelvin Macharia, signalling a shift in attacking options, while Marko Lukyamuzzi came on for right attacking midfielder Philip Maobe, aiming to bolster creativity and width on the right flank.
The final stages saw both teams pushing for a winner, but defensive resilience and goalkeeping heroics kept the scoreline balanced. XPION FC’s backline, marshalled expertly by Ian Matimbayi, who was deservedly named Player of the Match, maintained composure under pressure and thwarted several dangerous Guango attacks.
Ultimately, the match ended in a 2-2 draw after the additional five minutes of extra time, a fair reflection of the evenly matched contest. XPION FC demonstrated tactical discipline and attacking intent, while Guango F.C matched them stride for stride in front of their home fans.
This friendly encounter provided valuable minutes and insights for XPION FC as they continue to build cohesion and sharpen their squad ahead of more competitive fixtures.