Nairobi United, the Kenyan side that broke Ugandan hearts by eliminating NEC FC from the CAF Confederation Cup, have continued their fairytale run by storming into the group stages of the competition in their maiden continental appearance.
The debutants, who were representing Kenya in African club football for the very first time, have quickly evolved after an inspiring qualification campaign that has sent ripples across the region.
Nairobi United’s journey began with an all-East African affair against Uganda’s NEC FC in the first preliminary round – a tie that delivered everything: goals, tension, and drama.
The first leg at Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo, ended in a 2–2 thriller, with both sides showing attacking intent and courage.
In the decisive return leg in Nairobi, NEC battled bravely but could only manage a 1–1 draw, allowing the hosts to advance on the away goals rule – a regulation that still applies in CAF competitions.
For NEC, it was a case of so close yet so far, while Nairobi United celebrated a memorable passage to the next round, marking their first-ever continental victory.
If the elimination of NEC was a statement, what came next was a full-blown declaration.
Drawn against Etoile du Sahel, one of Tunisia’s most decorated sides and past African champions, few gave Nairobi United a chance.
But the Kenyans defied all expectations, producing a disciplined yet daring performance to claim a 2–0 victory in the first leg – a result that sent shockwaves across the continent.
The return leg in Tunisia, was predictably hostile. Etoile came out firing, matching the scoreline with their own 2–0 win, forcing the tie into a tense penalty shootout.
Nairobi United edged the Tunisians 7–6 on penalties, booking their ticket to the CAF Confederation Cup group stages – a landmark moment in the club’s young history.
Nairobi United’s achievement is a massive boost not just for Kenyan football, but for the East African region at large.
It stresses the growing competitiveness of clubs from this part of the continent.
Their qualification mirrors recent strides made by clubs such as Young Africans (Tanzania), and APR FC (Rwanda) in continental competitions proof that East Africa’s football is rising.
With the group stage draw around the corner, Nairobi United will now shift focus to maintaining their fairy-tale run against Africa’s elite.
Whether they draw seasoned campaigners, the Kenyan debutants have already proven they can rise to the occasion.
Their qualification not only boosts Kenya’s football reputation but also rekindles hope for a new generation of players dreaming of taking their talents to the continental stage.
For Nairobi United, what began as a hopeful debut has turned into a history-making campaign.
They may have started as NEC’s heartbreakers – but now, they stand as East Africa’s new continental story.
