'We Were Going to Suffer' - Nairobi United Defender Reflects on Intimidating CAF Confederation Cup Tie in Tunisia

The Nairobi United defender has revealed how intimidation and a hostile environment shaped their tense CAF Confederation Cup clash against Etoile du Sahel. Nairobi United defender John Otieno has revealed that he and his team sensed they had lost the return leg of the CAF Confederation Cup second preliminary round against Tunisian side Etoile du Sahel. Nairobi United travelled to Sousse, Tunisia, holding a precious 2-0 advantage from a stunning first-leg victory secured in Nairobi. They knew the return fixture at the Stade Olympique de Sousse would be a ferocious test of nerve and tactical discipline against the North African heavyweights. Etoile du Sahel, determined to overturn the deficit, pressed relentlessly and managed to level the aggregate score at 2-2 with a second-half strike and a last-gasp stoppage-time header. With the away goals rule neutralised by the Tunisians' two goals, the tie proceeded directly to a penalty shootout. The final score, 7-6 on penalties, was a testament to the Kenyan side's composure and fighting spirit. Speaking after the match, John Otieno admitted that the match had been more challenging than anticipated. John Otieno noted that holding a two-goal advantage became difficult due to the intense atmosphere and the pressure of playing before such a large audience for the first time. He added that the team faced moments of struggle, felt isolated without knowing the referee, and were under considerable intimidation, but their primary objective had always been to reach the group stages. "The first thing I would say is all glory to God...the game was tougher than we expected. We had a 2-0 lead, but with the hostile environment, and then most of us, it was the first time we were playing before such a huge crowd," he said. "We knew that we were going to suffer, and we knew there were times we would crack. We knew we were playing for ourselves, and we were alone in that. We didn't even know the referee, and we were intimidated on and off the pitch. However, we knew our main goal was to make the group stages." John Otieno reflected that playing at home had given them an advantage, as they were familiar with the pitch. However, he believed that having their fans present might have changed the result. He acknowledged that the away fixture would be challenging due to unfamiliar floodlights and a hostile atmosphere, but stressed that determination and focus were essential. John Otieno expressed pride in reaching the group stage and urged attention to Nairobi United, emphasising that success on this big stage depended on their mentality. "At home, we had an advantage because we knew the pitch despite not having our fans. But I believe if we had the fanbase at home, the outcome would have been different," he added. "In the away match, we knew it would be difficult because we were playing under the floodlights that we were not used to. "It feels good to make the group stage. Everybody should watch this space because Nairobi United is coming. This is a big stage, and it is all about our mentality." The victory ensures the club will now take its place in the group stage draw alongside continental royalty, such as Egypt's Zamalek, Morocco's Wydad Casablanca, and the reigning champions, USM Alger of Algeria. They stand with other emerging contenders like South Africa's Stellenbosch and Kaizer Chiefs, and Tanzania's Azam FC and Singida Black Stars. The group stage draw, scheduled for November 3 in Johannesburg, will determine the full extent of the challenge awaiting the Naibois.