Mombasa Utd edge Kariobangi Sharks to claim playoff first-leg advantage

Dennis Toeri and Tanzania-born striker Rashidi Waziri were on target for the home side, while Dalvin Wayne pulled one back for Sharks late in the match.

Mombasa United started brightly and created the first clear opportunity in the fifth minute when Jackson Watee found space inside the box, but his effort flew inches over the crossbar.

Five minutes later, Christian Lubulu had another chance for the hosts but failed to find the target.

Sharks responded with a good opportunity in the 10th minute, but Franklin Amolo missed a close-range effort, sending the ball over the bar.

Watee came close again when he connected with a header inside the penalty area, only for Sharks goalkeeper Collins Obwalo to make a crucial save.

Mombasa United continued to threaten before the break, with playmaker Rodgers Agal missing a golden opportunity in the 43rd minute after failing to keep his effort on target.

The hosts made an immediate change at the start of the second half, bringing on Khamis Abdulrahman for Adeyemi Mogbodemu.

United were rewarded for their pressure in the 63rd minute when Toeri converted from the penalty spot to put the hosts ahead.

Mombasa United doubled their advantage in the 75th minute through Waziri, who tapped home from close range after Khamis Abdulrahman beat two defenders before setting him up.

Sharks reduced the deficit eight minutes from time when Wayne finished from Eusters Chasara's cross, setting up a tense finish.

Mombasa United held on to secure the victory, but the tie remains finely poised ahead of the second leg in Nairobi on October 6.

United head coach Abdulhamid Moallin welcomed the win but acknowledged that the contest is far from over.

“It was a tough match. We anticipated it would be like that. Kariobangi Sharks are good with the ball, but I am happy we won. As it seems, it is far from over.”

Sharks coach William Muluya said his side will return to the drawing board and work on their approach for the return leg.

“We have lost, but now we have to go back to the drawing board and plan for the second leg.”