Nairobi United’s search for their first points in the CAF Confederation Cup group stage hit another setback after they lost 1–0 to AS Maniema Union at the Kasarani Stadium on Sunday, November 30, 2025.

The narrow defeat leaves the Kenyan side rooted at the bottom of Group B after back-to-back losses in their debut continental campaign.

Coming into the match, Nairobi United hoped to recover from their 3–0 loss to Wydad Casablanca in Morocco. Head coach Salim Ali made several adjustments to steady his side.

Yusuf Mainge returned at right-back after serving a suspension, while Brian Magare replaced the suspended Brian Omondi in midfield. Despite the changes, Nairobi United’s problems in the final third resurfaced, and they failed to convert several opportunities that could have changed the game.

Maniema Union settled quickly and showed early intent. In the fourth minute, Mbala Titan sent in a dangerous ball that forced Nairobi United to concede a corner.

The visitors continued to control possession, forcing the hosts to chase the game for long spells. Christian Mbalako had two clear chances to put Maniema ahead after good work from Clement Pitroipa on both occasions, but he shot wide each time with only goalkeeper Kevin Oduor to beat.

Nairobi United slowly found their rhythm. Kevin Otiende and Lesley Owino combined well on the left, while Enock Machaka delivered a teasing cross that flashed across the face of the goal with Michael Karamor arriving a step late. Duncan Omala then created an opening on the right but missed the far post by inches.

Their best chance of the half came in the 40th minute when Karamor broke free and went one-on-one with Maniema goalkeeper Detan Ogundare. However, his shot from a tight angle lacked power, and Ogundare saved comfortably. The match went into the break goalless, with Nairobi United left frustrated by their missed opportunities.

Second-half shift decides

The visitors came out stronger after half-time. Maniema Union made early substitutions, bringing on James Mboma and Tshitenge to add energy in attack. The changes worked almost immediately.

In the 66th minute, Mboma found space inside the box and drilled the ball past Oduor to give Maniema a 1–0 lead. The goal shifted the match in favour of the DR Congo side and forced Nairobi United to chase the game again.

Ali responded by introducing Chris Opondo and Majaliwa Charo to inject urgency. Later, he replaced Shami Kibwana, who had struggled to make the most of his chances.

Nairobi United pushed forward with more intent, but Maniema Union remained composed. Their backline, well protected by Ogundare, closed down spaces quickly and forced Nairobi United into rushed decisions.

As time ran out, Maniema made further adjustments, including bringing on Lina for Chadoma to protect their advantage. Nairobi United continued to attack but lacked the sharpness needed to unlock the Congolese defence. Ogundare stayed alert and handled the late pressure well.

The final whistle confirmed Nairobi United’s second straight defeat in the group stage. Their wastefulness in front of goal stood out, especially in a match they could have taken control of with better finishing. The result now means Nairobi United face a difficult path if they hope to progress to the knockout round.

They sit bottom of Group B with no points and a negative goal difference. Their next assignment is a tough double-header against Tanzania’s Azam FC in January. A win in that clash, preferably with a healthy margin, will be crucial if they are to keep their campaign alive.