Nicholas Muyoti On Why Nairobi United Feel No Pressure Going Into CAF Confederation Cup Group Stages

The Nairobi United coach has shared the mindset behind Nairobi United's calm approach as they prepare for their first-ever CAF Confederation Cup group stages. Nairobi United coach Nicholas Muyoti has praised his team, saying they head into the CAF Confederation Cup group stages with confidence and no pressure. Nairobi United, making their debut in the CAF Confederation Cup, defied all odds to deny NEC FC and Etoile du Sahel a slot in the group stages with a decisive style of play. The Naibois showcased incredible resilience through the preliminary rounds. In the first round, they advanced past Uganda's NEC FC on the away goals rule after a 3-3 aggregate draw, following a 2-2 away and a 1-1 home display. Their biggest test came in the second preliminary round against North African giants Etoile du of Tunisia. Nairobi United stunned the former continental champions with a convincing 2-0 victory in the first leg at home. The return leg was a tense affair, with Etoile du Sahel levelling the aggregate score at 2-2 with a 2-0 win, forcing a penalty shootout. In the dramatic shootout, the Kenyan side held their nerve to win 7-6, with goalkeeper Kevin Oduor proving the hero by saving and scoring the decisive spot-kicks. Upon their arrival in the country after their exploits in Tunisia, Nicholas Muyoti commended his players for their commitment and resilience. He noted that despite the tough conditions, they rose to the occasion as planned. He expressed gratitude for their efforts while emphasising that the journey was far from over, urging club owner, Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, to maintain support as the team strives for future success. "These players have given their all. The match was not easy; the environment was very hostile, but we had already prepared them, and they were ready," he said. "We thank them for the work they have done, but there is more ahead, and I want to request the governor to continue walking with us, and we shall definitely be winners." Nicholas Muyoti added that Nairobi United will approach the next stage with composure and focus rather than pressure. He added that the players now understand their mission is to proudly represent the country and are determined to elevate Kenya's status on the continental stage. "For the next stage, I think at the moment there is no pressure, and the most important thing is that players know we want to represent Kenya and now we are raising the flag and we shall place it where it is supposed to be," he said. Nairobi United will learn their CAF Confederation Cup group stage opponents in the upcoming draw on Monday, November 3, 2025. The Naibois have been placed in Pot four for the draw, meaning they will face a formidable array of clubs from Pot one, two, and three, which includes continental giants and seasoned campaigners like Wydad AC, Zamalek SC, USM Alger, and Kaizer Chiefs.