Nairobi United sealed their passage to the next round of the CAF Confederation Cup after holding Ugandan side NEC FC to a 1-1 draw on Saturday, advancing on aggregate score tied at 3-3.
The 1-1 result was enough to send the Naibois, as they call themselves, through to the second round on the away-goals rule, following last week’s 2-2 stalemate in the first leg at Nakivubo’s Hamz Stadium.
After an intense first leg that ended 2-2 in Kampala, the Kenyan debutants knew they needed to stay composed at home against a spirited NEC side looking to capitalize on any mistakes.
The visitors struck first midway through the opening half, through Charles Waibi on 23 minutes to silence the home crowd at the Nyayo Stadium. NEC, knowing they needed to get going, started quick off the blocks, applying early pressure to put the shocked United on the back foot.
Taken aback by the goal concession, Nairobi United looked jaded and could have conceded more were it not for the heroics of goalkeeper Kevin Oduor who made a number of smart saves to keep the score honest. It was 0-1 at half time.
The Naibois begun the second half with more purpose after a much needed break and equalized through Duncan Omalla's well-taken effort on 63 minutes, ensuring the tie remained finely balanced.
The second half was a tense affair, with NEC pushing for the decisive goal and United defending resolutely while looking for opportunities on the counterattack.
Despite late pressure from the visiting club, Nairobi United held firm to protect their away-goals advantage and confirm their historic progression.
This marks a significant milestone for Nairobi United, who are featuring in continental competition for the very first time.
Their grit, discipline, and ability to perform under pressure have now set up a tantalizing next round clash, where they will look to continue their fairy-tale run in one of Africa’s premier club football competitions.
They will take on either Tunisia's Etoile Sahel or Sudan's Al Ahli Wan Madina in the next round.