Africa-Press – Kenya. KCB FC’s title dreams are suddenly alive again. Under the steely guidance of Robert “The Lion” Matano, the bankers have clawed their way into the Kenyan Premier League’s top five, weeks before the season reaches its climax.
For a club long defined by near misses and underachievement, the timing could scarcely be better. “This is our season,” Matano said, his voice carrying the quiet authority of a man who has seen titles won and lost. “The boys have worked hard, and now the pieces are falling into place.”
The resurgence has been remarkable. After a tentative start, KCB have now found rhythm, resilience, and confidence. Their climb is not merely numerical; it is psychological. “Every match from now is like a final,” Matano explained. “We cannot afford to drop points against anyone.”
The manager’s credibility is unquestionable. A three-time KPL winner with Tusker and Sofapaka, Matano understands what it takes to navigate a title race. He has built his KCB side with care, blending raw talent with experienced heads.
Golden Boot contender Kevin Etimesi has emerged as the leader, his finishing and movement giving the side a cutting edge. “Etimesi has been exceptional,” Matano acknowledged. “He works hard, stays focused, and delivers when it matters most.”
Former Gor Mahia striker Boniface Omondi adds poise and experience, while veteran defender Clyde Senaji marshals a defence that once leaked points too easily. “Omondi adds calm in the final third,” Matano said. “Clyde brings leadership.
Together, they give balance to the team.” — Patience, Matano insists, is crucial. KCB’s early stumbles were familiar territory for a club that has flirted with glory but never quite clinched it.
“We didn’t have the easiest start,” he said. “But I always believed this team had what it takes. Consistency is key, and now we are showing it on the pitch.”
Past disappointments under Zedekiah “Zico” Otieno, Bernard Mwalala, and Patrick Odhiambo weigh on the club’s collective memory. Matano treats those experiences as lessons, not burdens. “Close calls teach you more than victories sometimes,” he said.
“Now, we are focused and prepared.” — The tactical discipline Matano has instilled is evident. KCB now appear difficult to break down, more ruthless when chances arise. “We are more compact and harder to beat,” he said. “Our defence is disciplined, and our attack is clinical.”
Rotation has become a weapon rather than a necessity. Matano carefully manages player fatigue, understanding that the league’s final weeks will test stamina as much as skill. “Keeping players fresh is crucial,” he explained.
As the league table tightens, the challenge grows. Matano has made it clear: KCB are not content to be spectators. “We are not here to participate; we are here to compete for the title,” he said.
“The players know what is at stake, and they are embracing it.” Experience, discipline, and mental toughness—these are Matano’s watchwords. “Winning the league is not just about talent,” he said. “It’s about preparation, focus, and belief. We have built that now.”
For KCB supporters, the narrative has changed, and it is no longer defined by what could have been as the club now projects purpose and possibility. Matano has made sure the team is ready to seize the moment. “I have seen what this team can do,” he said. “If we maintain focus, stay disciplined, and play our style of football, we can lift the trophy.”
The coming weeks will define a season that has oscillated between hope and doubt. Under Matano, KCB are no longer guessing. They are calculating, competing, and — crucially — believing. Whether this is the year they finally claim the elusive KPL crown is still to be seen. But one thing is certain: Matano has given the bankers a roar worth hearing.
