Sakaja Leads Heroic Welcome as Nairobi United Make History with CAF Confederation Cup Qualification

History was made this week as Nairobi United FC returned home to a rousing reception at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, following their remarkable qualification for the CAF Confederation Cup group stage.

The team, nicknamed “The Naibois,” was received by Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, who led county officials, fans, and family members in a jubilant welcome after the side’s heroic display against Tunisia’s Étoile Sportive du Sahel.

It was a celebration not just of victory, but of belief — proof that Kenyan football can stand tall on the continental stage.

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Key Takeaway

Nairobi United’s qualification for the CAF Confederation Cup group stage — achieved in their debut continental season — marks a significant moment for Kenyan club football and a sign of the game’s revival in the capital.

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The Road to History

Nairobi United stunned African football after eliminating Tunisian giants Étoile Sportive du Sahel in the CAF Confederation Cup playoff round.

The Kenyan side won 2–0 in the first leg played in Nairobi, before Étoile leveled the tie 2–0 in Tunisia. With the aggregate score tied, the match was decided on penalties, where Nairobi United triumphed 7–6 to book their place in the group stage for the first time.

Match Summary

Leg	Venue	Score	Aggregate	Outcome
1st Leg	Nairobi	Nairobi United 2–0 Étoile du Sahel	2–0	Win
2nd Leg	Sousse, Tunisia	Étoile du Sahel 2–0 Nairobi United	2–2	Draw
Penalties	—	Nairobi United 7–6 Étoile du Sahel	—	Qualified

The result marked a defining achievement — the club’s debut continental season ending in group stage qualification, a feat few Kenyan sides have achieved in the past decade.

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Kevin Oduor: The Penalty Hero

Nairobi United’s goalkeeper Kevin Oduor became the night’s hero after playing a decisive role in the shootout. Kenyan sports outlets confirmed that Oduor made crucial saves and scored the winning penalty, sealing the team’s progression.

His composure under pressure has made him an instant fan favorite and a symbol of the team’s fearless spirit.

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Sakaja’s Welcome and City Pride

Upon the team’s arrival in Nairobi, Governor Johnson Sakaja led a warm reception alongside jubilant fans. Local media showed Sakaja congratulating the players and celebrating with supporters at the airport.

The Governor — who has been a visible supporter of the team — commended the side for making Nairobi proud and placing Kenya back on the continental football map.

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A Financial Boost and a National Statement

Qualifying for the CAF Confederation Cup group stage comes with more than prestige. According to the CAF prize structure, every club that reaches the group phase is guaranteed at least USD 400,000 (around KSh 51 million).

That financial injection will be crucial for Nairobi United as they strengthen their squad, improve logistics, and enhance player welfare ahead of their group-stage campaign.

Kenyan Clubs in CAF Group Stage (Past Decade)

Year	Club	Competition	Stage Reached
2025	Nairobi United	CAF Confederation Cup	Group Stage
2018	Gor Mahia	CAF Confederation Cup	Quarterfinals
2019	Kariobangi Sharks	CAF Confederation Cup	First Round
2023	Gor Mahia	CAF Champions League	Preliminary Round

Nairobi United’s success also reignites optimism in Kenyan football — showing that with structure, investment, and belief, local clubs can still compete against Africa’s best.

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What’s Next for Nairobi United

Following their qualification, Nairobi United have been placed in Pot 4 ahead of the CAF Confederation Cup group stage draw, set for November 3, 2025, in Johannesburg, South Africa.

The draw will determine the opponents the Naibois will face as they prepare to represent Kenya on the continental stage.

With momentum, unity, and city-wide support behind them, the team will now focus on maintaining their form as they chase another milestone — reaching the knockout phase.

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A Moment Bigger Than Football

For Nairobi United, this is more than a sporting victory. It is a story of ambition and belief — of a city rallying behind its own.

Their journey from newcomers to continental contenders highlights a rebirth of Kenyan football spirit — a reminder that the next generation of champions can rise from Nairobi’s own backyards.

As the celebrations fade and preparations begin, one thing is certain:
Nairobi United have written themselves into Kenya’s football history books.