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A newly promoted team in the FKF Premier League, Nairobi United, has created history by advancing to the group stage of the CAF Confederation Cup in their first ever continental competition, following a thrilling penalty shootout victory against the Tunisian giant Étoile Sportive du Sahel on Sunday evening.

The group, widely referred to as the Naibois, narrowly defeated the African giants 7–6 in a penalty shootout after a closely contested 2–2 total scoreline, signifying a significant milestone for Kenyan soccer.

They were the first Kenyan team to qualify for the CAF group stage on their initial participation, and the first since Gor Mahia in 2018 to progress this far in the tournament.

The standout player of the night, goalkeeper Kevin Oduor, experienced a tumultuous match in Sousse.

Having traveled with a 2-0 lead from Nairobi, United were on track for history until Oduor’s miscalculated aerial challenge let Étoile score an injury-time equalizer, sending the match to penalties.

From a possible antagonist to an immediate hero, Oduor made amends in a remarkable way—saving two penalties, including the first one from Étoile captain Nahim Nhid—before going on to take the crucial kick.

His composed strike past Ben Hassen quieted the passionate Tunisian audience and filled the visitors with delight.

Earlier in the game, Étoile equalized the tie on aggregate with a goal from Rayan Anen in the 53rd minute, which forced United to defend deeper.

Coach Nicholas Muyoti’s team remained strong, guided by captain John Otieno, who managed the defense with calmness, while forwards Ovella Ochieng and Dancan Omala posed a danger during counterattacks.

In the intense shootout, United’s players — Otieno, Mzee, Otiende, Ogutu, Opondo, and Magare — scored their penalties with assurance, and Oduor’s decisive goal secured the club’s most memorable moment.

The achievement marked a stunning four-month surge for the club managed by Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja. Nairobi United, who were promoted from the National Super League this year, had previously won the Mozzart Bet Cup by defeating Gor Mahia in the final.

Their most recent achievement secures them at least Sh58 million in prize money from CAF.

The Naibois are now part of an exclusive group of only four Kenyan clubs that have ever defeated a North African team, continuing the legacy of Luo Union, Utalii, and Bandari.

Nairobi United will now concentrate on the CAF Confederation Cup group stage draw, set for November 3, 2025, in Johannesburg, where 16 teams will be divided into four groups of four.

Their remarkable journey — from newly promoted outsiders to European challengers — has already changed the narrative for Kenyan football.