President William Ruto impressed as history-making Nairobi United jet back
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Reading Time: 2min | Tue. 28.10.25. | 12:05
Nairobi United will learn their group-stage opponents on Monday, 4th November, when the draw is conducted in South Africa
President William Ruto has joined thousands of Kenyans in congratulating Nairobi United for qualifying for the CAF Confederation Cup group stage at their first attempt.
United sealed their place in the group stage on Sunday, in Tunis, after overcoming Tunisia’s Etoile du Sahel in the second round of the qualifiers.
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After a 2-2 draw on aggregate, the tie was decided on penalties, where Kevin Oduor emerged the hero with two crucial saves before scoring the winning spot-kick to send the Kenyan side through.
Earlier, United had edged out Uganda’s NEC FC in the first round. Following a 3-3 aggregate draw, their two away goals from the 2-2 stalemate in Kampala proved decisive.
In the second round, they won the first leg 2-0 in Nairobi before losing by the same scoreline in Tunis, forcing the match into penalties.
This marks the first time the club has qualified for the CAF Confederation Cup group stage, matching a feat last achieved by Gor Mahia, who reached the same stage in 2018 after beating South Africa’s Supersport United in the final qualification phase.
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As congratulatory messages poured in, President Ruto added his voice, hailing the team’s resilience and history-making performance.
“The people of Kenya stand immensely proud of Nairobi United Football Club for their historic qualification to the CAF Confederation Cup group stage.
This remarkable achievement, forged in courage, discipline, and unyielding fortitude, has ignited the spirit of our nation and reaffirmed Kenya’s rightful place on Africa’s football map,” read part of his statement.
The president recognized the collective effort behind the club’s success, emphasizing the power of unity and belief.
“By triumphing over Tunisia’s Etoile du Sahel, one of the continent’s most formidable clubs, Nairobi United have proven that belief, unity, and teamwork can indeed conquer giants. We celebrate every player, coach, manager, and fan whose passion and commitment have carried the team to this defining moment in our sporting history.”
Ruto concluded his message with words of encouragement as the club prepares for the group stage.
“As Kenya’s sole continental representatives, Nairobi United now bear the nation’s flag with honour, pride, and promise. We wish them renewed strength, focus, and confidence as they step onto the group-stage stage. Hongera (well done), Nairobi United. You have made history, and you have made us proud.”
Nairobi United will learn their group-stage opponents on Monday, 4th November, when the draw is conducted in South Africa.
