Teen tornado Omala ignites Nairobi United’s dream run

Nairobi United forward Dancan Omala/HANDOUT 

Teenage sensation Dancan Omala is chasing a powerful finish to the season, having burst into prominence with a stirring campaign for Nairobi United.

The 19-year-old forward, who is the younger brother of Benson Omala, has enjoyed a rapid rise from grass-roots football in Kisumu to becoming a key attacking weapon for Naibois in the SportPesa Premier League.

Omala has already scored crucial goals in both domestic and continental competitions this season, helping Nairobi United establish themselves among the league’s surprise packages while also impressing in the CAF Confederation Cup.

Speaking after Nairobi United’s recent run of positive results, Omala said his main focus is helping the club secure a strong finish in their debut top-flight campaign. “We want to finish the season in the best position possible because we have worked very hard from the beginning,” said Omala.

The youngster added that Nairobi United’s dressing room remains motivated despite the pressure of competing against more established clubs. “People did not expect us to compete at this level, but we believed in ourselves from the first day,” he said.

Nairobi United currently sit fourth in the league standings and remains firmly in contention for a top-three finish after an impressive run that has included victories over some of the division’s biggest teams.

Omala has been central to that rise, contributing important goals and assists while earning praise for his maturity, pace and composure in decisive moments. “I always want to improve every game because I know there is still a lot for me to learn,” Omala noted.

The former Kisumu Day High School star first gained national attention through youth football tournaments before earning opportunities with grass-roots clubs in western Kenya. His career later took another step forward during a brief stint at ABM Foot Academy in Mali, where his performances attracted growing interest from scouts and agents.

Since joining Nairobi United in 2024, Omala’s development has accelerated rapidly. He helped the club win the National Super League title and the Mozzart Bet Cup before adapting seamlessly to life in the Premier League.

The winger believes playing continental football has also helped sharpen his mentality and confidence. “CAF matches have taught me how to stay calm under pressure because the intensity is much higher,” he explained.

Omala made headlines earlier this season after scoring against continental giants Étoile Sportive du Sahel and Azam FC, becoming one of the youngest scorers in CAF competitions during the campaign.

His performances have reportedly attracted interest from clubs outside Kenya, though the teenager insists he remains focused on his current responsibilities. “My dream is to play in Europe one day, but right now I am concentrating on helping Nairobi United,” Omala said.

The youngster also paid tribute to his elder brother Benson, who currently leads the Premier League scoring charts with Gor Mahia. “He always advises me to stay disciplined and continue working hard because football can change very quickly,” Omala revealed.

Despite the growing spotlight around his name, Omala insists he is determined to remain grounded as his career continues to blossom. “I know this is only the beginning for me, and I must stay humble,” he said.

Nairobi United coach Geoffrey Oduor has repeatedly praised the forward’s mentality and willingness to learn, qualities he believes could eventually earn Omala a move abroad if his development continues on the same trajectory.

For now, however, Omala’s attention remains fixed on helping Nairobi United complete their fairytale season strongly as the campaign enters its decisive final stretch. “We want to keep fighting until the last match because we still believe we can achieve something special this season,” Omala concluded.