Hits and misses in Nairobi United’s CAF defeat to Azam
By Luke Oluoch, January 26, 2026Visiting Tanzanian giants, Azam FC secured their first-ever victory in the CAF Confederation group stage after edging Nairobi United 2-1 in a comeback win at the Nyayo National Stadium on Sunday. January 25, 2026.
The triumph saw Nairobi’s misery continue as the club remained at the bottom of the group after three games, where the club is yet to pick up any points.
Salim Ali’s charges opened their Group B campaign with back-to-back losses against Wydad Casablanca and AS Meneama in a dismal start to their debut campaign.
The team’s quest to make amends against the relatively lowly ranked East African rivals, however, culminated in defeat.
K24 Sports ranks the stars and flops of the matchday three fixture:
Dancan Omalla
The Nairobi United attacker had been the club’s man to go to for goals. He lived up to the acclaim with a well-struck goal to put the Naibois ahead in the encounter. Omala perfectly finished Michael Karamor’s delivery with a well-timed first-time lob to catch an out-of-position Azaam goalie.
Kevin Otiende
The fullback has been a permanent figure in Naiboi’s rearguard this season and fittingly earned his call-up to the national team.
His most telling performance was his goal-line clearance that could see his side concede a second goal from a 68th-minute set piece.
John Otieno
The experienced defender made a captain’s performance, valiantly leading his team out in the encounter. Tasked with keeping tabs on the lanky attacker Jepthe Kitambala, Otieno’s overall performance was assured, although the team conceded twice in the clash.
Lennox Ogutu
The ex-Mathare ace played a pivotal role in the central partnership with Otieno. He was credited with a crucial clearance early on as the tie kicked off on a cagey affair.
Misses
Ernest Mohammed: The custodian has on more than one occasion proved the matchday hero but was far from his usual best against Florent Ibenge’s team. He was twice caught out of position, only to be bailed out by defenders.
An unfortunate own goal on an evening that was not to be was compounded by Himid Mao’s shot that came off his back to seal the win.
Ovella struggles
Ovella Ochieng: The pacy offensive winger has been a bright spot in Naiboi’s CAF games after trading the blue and white of AFC Leopards for the Naibois.
He lacked the direct attribute to take on defenders from the flanks before a shoulder injury cut short his contribution for the evening, denying him the chance to witness trickery on the right wing.
Naibois’ next fixture is a must-win away clash against Azam at the Chamazi Complex