Nairobi United eager to ruffle feathers in the NSL

Nairobi United FC may be a young team in terms of establishment but their rise over the past few years is nothing short of one borne of sheer willpower. Ready to make their National Super League debut, the side’s pre-season preps is something to marvel about.

United edged Zoo FC in a play-off contest for the NSL slot, albeit amid controversy involving crowd trouble and have made it their sole aim to prove all doubters wrong when the new season begins.

Coached by former Tusker and Sofapaka forward Paul Okatwa Odhiambo, United look poised to cause upsets in the second tier that begins on 16 September 2023.

Former Zetech University captain Steven Duol plays in the midfield for the side and reveals that there is a lot that goes on behind the scenes that may give answers to their quick rise within the ranks.

‘’We put in work every day through training and play very high-profile friendly matches. Mostly, we test ourselves against top flight teams. Just yesterday we took on Nairobi City Stars in two matches and lost narrowly by a goal in each,’’ says the ex-South Sudan junior international.

Coach Okatwa is still honing his skills as a tactician, having just recently retired, and this Dual believes is a great advantage to United.

‘’To have a young coach like that is an advantage of sorts. He is very flexible and relates to players easily,’’ continues Duol.

Even though not official, Nairobi United have brought in a number of players within the team to bolster their ranks now that they will be playing at a different level. The 22-year-old concedes that this is necessary as they are entering a new territory and will need all the help they can get.

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‘’There are players who have left for greener pastures and so there is a need to replace them. We have had some very good visitors with us in training. I am confident the management will boost our squad with the very best because the NSL is one lengthy league,’’ he adds.

The National Super League fixtures are out and the newbies will be on the road to Kibera Black Stars in their opening clash before hosting Kisumu All Stars. They will then welcome Gusii at home for their third. While continuing their pre-season preparations, the team plays Murang’a Seals today and later AFC Leopards.