Nairobi United humbled by AS Maniema as CAF Cup sojourn ends
Ovella Ochieng (L) of Nairobi United FC challenge Azam FC player during their CAF Confederation Cup Group B match at Nyayo National Stadium on Sunday January 25, 2026. Photo/Sportpicha
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The Congolese hosts dominated from the start, racing into a two-goal lead inside the first half hour thanks to a brace from Beni Namboka. Namboka's clinical finishing punished Nairobi United's defensive lapses early, setting the tone for a one-sided encounter.
Jeancy Mboma added the third goal just before halftime in the 44th minute, sealing the result and putting the game beyond reach.
Maniema Union's clinical finishing contrasted sharply with Nairobi United's inability to score from their chances created, despite earlier promises from the Kenyan side to improve on their home performance.
The defeat means Nairobi United finish bottom of Group B with zero points from six matches, having lost all their group games.
Maniema Union climb to second place with 12 points (three wins, two losses), advancing to the knockout stages alongside group winners Wydad AC (who beat Azam FC 2-0 in the simultaneous fixture).
Nairobi United's debut continental campaign has been tough against established opposition, but the Naibois showed resilience in patches—creating chances in earlier matches without reward.
Coach Salim Ali had called for better finishing ahead of the trip, while goalkeeper Kevin Oduor highlighted the step-up in speed and efficiency at CAF level.
Despite injuries to key players like Ovella and Ssematimba, the squad departed hoping for a positive send-off, but Maniema Union's home strength and early goals proved decisive.
For Kenyan football, the experience gained will be invaluable as Nairobi United return to domestic action in the KPL, where they can channel lessons into improving their league standing.
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