NEC begin their first ever continental campaign on Saturday when they host Kenya’s Nairobi United in the opening leg of the 2025/26 CAF Confederation Cup preliminary round. Kickoff is 7:00 pm EAT at Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo.
The Bugoloobi side sealed their place on the African stage after finishing second in the 2024/25 StarTimes Uganda Premier League, just two points behind champions Vipers SC.
Head coach Hussein Mbalangu’s squad arrive in good form after a spirited run to the FUFA Super 8 final earlier this month, where they defeated Express and URA before falling 2-0 to SC Villa. That stretch sharpened their match fitness and squad depth ahead of Saturday’s showdown.
Mbalangu confirmed a fully fit squad and said his players are eager to announce themselves beyond Uganda. “We have prepared well and we respect Nairobi United, but we want to make a statement at home,” he noted.
Nairobi United are making their own first appearance in CAF competition.
The Kenyan second-tier club stunned their country last season by winning the FKF Mozzart Bet Cup, knocking out Tusker, KCB and Gor Mahia to earn this slot. Their fairy-tale run has made them dangerous opponents despite their underdog status.
The return leg is scheduled for September 27 in Nairobi, with the aggregate winner advancing to the next round.
