Kenyan debutants Nairobi United have officially discovered their CAF Confederation Cup group-stage opponents following Monday’s draw that placed them in Group B alongside some of the continent’s heavyweights.
The 2025 Mozzart Bet Cup winners will face Wydad AC (Morocco), AS Maniema Union (DRC), and Azam FC (Tanzania) a challenging yet exciting group that marks the club’s first-ever appearance at this stage of continental football.
Nairobi United’s inclusion among Africa’s elite caps a fairytale journey that has unfolded over just two seasons. The team, led by head coach Nicholas Muyoti, made history after edging Tunisia’s Etoile du Sahel 7–6 on penalties in the playoff round to seal their spot in the group stage. It was a night of high drama in Sousse one that will forever be remembered by Kenyan football fans. After a 2–2 aggregate draw, goalkeeper Kevin Oduor, who had been at fault for Etoile’s equaliser, turned hero by saving two penalties and scoring the decisive spot-kick himself.
That victory made Nairobi United the first Kenyan side to reach the CAF Confederation Cup group stage since Gor Mahia in the 2018/19 season — a remarkable milestone for a club that was competing in the National Super League just over a year ago.
The draw now pits the Kenyan newcomers against formidable opposition: Wydad AC, the Moroccan giants and three-time African champions, now seeking redemption after missing out on the CAF Champions League; AS Maniema Union, a fast-rising Congolese side known for their attacking football and tough home record in Kinshasa; and Azam FC, one of Tanzania’s most financially stable clubs with regional experience and a passionate fan base.
Nairobi United’s journey will begin with home advantage at Nyayo National Stadium, with fixtures scheduled to kick off later this month.
Backed by Nairobi County Governor Johnson Sakaja, the club’s rapid growth has become a symbol of hope for domestic football. Their success story promotion to the SportPesa Premier League, a domestic cup triumph, and now continental football represents what structured management and local investment can achieve.
Beyond pride, the financial benefits are also significant. According to CAF’s prize structure, teams reaching the group stage are guaranteed around KSh 51.6 million, with more to come if they advance to the knockout rounds.
As Kenya’s sole continental representative this season, Nairobi United carry the hopes of an entire nation. Their rise from the second tier to competing against African giants embodies the power of belief and organization. From Nyayo to North Africa, from local dreams to continental ambitions, Nairobi United’s journey is just beginning — and all eyes will be on how far the new force in Kenyan football can go.
