In a historic achievement, Kenya’s Nairobi United has made its mark in Kenyan football by becoming the first-ever Kenyan club to qualify for the CAF Confederation Cup group stages on its debut.
The team, coached by Nicholas Muyoti, triumphed in a thrilling penalty shootout against the prestigious Tunisian giants Étoile du Sahel, winning 7-6 after an intense two-leg contest that ended in a 2-2 aggregate draw.
The stakes were high, as Étoile du Sahel faced an uphill battle in the second leg after suffering a 2-0 defeat in Nairobi. However, they demonstrated remarkable resilience and determination.
The standout performer of the match was goalkeeper Kevin Odour, who saved two penalties and converted the decisive spot-kick, sending the team into a state of jubilation.
Étoile du Sahel opened the game with intense pressure, nearly scoring within the first minute when a mix-up in the Nairobi United defense allowed a forward to threaten with a shot. Quick thinking from defender John Otieno saved an early scare by clearing the ball from danger. The Tunisian side continued to press, testing Odour with a series of attempts, but the goalkeeper remained composed, thwarting Mohamed Senghor’s effort in the 13th minute.
Nairobi United, known for their swift counter-attacks, responded with promising play from Dancan Omala and Ovella Ochieng. However, they struggled to break the deadlock in the first half, with missed opportunities haunting them as Michael Karamor failed to convert a golden chance just before halftime.
As the second half unfolded, the match grew more competitive, with both sides pushing for that vital goal. Étoile du Sahel was relentless, coming close with powerful strikes, but Odour and his defenders held strong, ensuring the game remained level.
The hosts restarted strongly and took the lead ten minutes into the second half through Mohamed Ryan Anen, who latched onto a loose ball inside the box to make it 1-0.
Étoile du Sahel threw everything forward in the closing stages, and their persistence paid off deep into stoppage time when Anen once again rose highest to head home a late goal, leveling the aggregate score at 2-2 and sending the match to a nerve-wracking penalty shootout.
The decisive moment finally arrived during the penalty shootout, where nerves were high. Kevin Odour emerged as the hero of the night, making critical saves that kept the hope alive for his teammates. With the crowd on edge, he calmly converted the winning penalty, sealing a historic victory for the newly promoted FKF Premier League side.
Now, the Nai Boys await the group stage draw in Johannesburg, South Africa, scheduled for November 3, 2025. As they prepare to face new challenges, Nairobi United not only celebrates this groundbreaking achievement but also signifies a new era for Kenyan football on the continental stage. This remarkable journey adds to the legacy of Kenyan clubs in international competitions, joining the ranks of Luo Union, Utalii, and Bandari, who have previously triumphed over North African teams.
This victory is not just a milestone for Nairobi United but a moment of pride for Kenyan football as a whole, inspiring aspiring footballers and fans alike. As celebrations continue, one thing is certain: Nairobi United has firmly established itself in the world of African football.
