Nairobi United's Lesley Otieno in action with Etoile Sahel's Ouertani Med Adem/HANDOUTThe SportPesa League newbies are in a bruising Group ‘B’, up against Moroccan giants Wydad Casablanca, Tanzania’s Azam FC and Congo’s AS Maniema Union — a line-up dripping with pedigree and pressure.
It’s the kind of draw that would make many new clubs flinch. But for Nairobi United, the underdogs of Africa’s big stage, it’s exactly the kind of challenge they’ve been dreaming about. Inside their camp, there’s no panic—only purpose.
Muyoti, calm but fiercely determined, insists his team won’t be travelling across Africa as tourists. This, he says, is their moment to fight for respect.
“We respect the giants, yes—but even giants fall when a team believes more than it fears,” said Muyoti.
For a side that only a few years ago was playing in the second tier, the journey has been nothing short of miraculous. Yet, the coach’s tone is anything but surprised.
“This draw is not a punishment; it’s an invitation to prove that Kenyan football still has a heartbeat,” he said. “When people said we couldn’t reach this far, I told the boys—football doesn’t listen to history; it listens to hunger.”
The draw places Naibois in the path of Africa’s most consistent performers. Wydad Casablanca, three-time CAF Champions League winners, bring an unmatched pedigree.
Azam FC’s experience in East African derbies and Maniema Union’s raw athleticism make this pool one of the tournament’s toughest.
Still, Muyoti refuses to blink. “We are the new kids on Africa’s block, but we won’t knock politely,” he smiled. “We’re coming with noise, energy, and pride.”
His preparations would focus on tactical adaptability and discipline—two areas he believes can bridge the gap between Kenya’s domestic game and the continent’s elite.
“You can’t buy experience, but you can build it in fire,” he said.
Nairobi United’s presence in the Confederation Cup marks a turning point for Kenyan football, long battered by boardroom wrangles and false dawns.
“Our dream isn’t to survive—it’s to surprise,” said Muyoti. “To walk into those stadiums and leave with stories our children will tell.”
The club begins residential training next week ahead of their opening clash against Wydad in Nairobi. CAF is expected to confirm fixtures soon, with Nyayo Stadium set to host United’s home ties.
Muyoti remains unshaken and caps off his comments with his trademark grin. “We’re not afraid of the mountain,” he said. “We just came to climb.”
