CAF Confederation Cup: Enock Machaka Fires Warning to AS Maniema as Nairobi United Hunt Redemption

‏Nairobi United midfielder Enock Machaka has explained why their opening CAF Confederation Cup defeat to Wydad AC was not devastating, while also issuing a warning to DR Congo’s AS Maniema.

In their opening match, played at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca, Morocco, Nairobi United lost 3-0 to Wydad AC.

Wydad AC’s goals came from Ayoub Boucheta, who opened the scoring just three minutes into the match. Mohamed Bouchouari doubled the lead just before the half-time break, netting in the 44th minute.

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The emphatic victory was sealed late in the game by substitute Mohamed Rayhi, who found the back of the net in the 86th minute, capitalising on a neat exchange. The result places Wydad AC at the top of Group B after the first round of fixtures.

Speaking after the loss to Wydad AC, Enock Machaka stated that the game had been a good experience, praising the Moroccan side as one of the best clubs in Africa.

He explained that despite the 3-0 loss, the team enjoyed the match and remained optimistic, noting that they would regroup and aim for a stronger performance in Nairobi against AS Maniema.

Enock Machaka added that conceding three goals was not disastrous and that Nairobi United are now focused on recovering in the return fixture.

“It was a good game. Wydad is a very experienced side, but we have enjoyed the match despite losing. We shall recollect ourselves and see what happens in Nairobi against Maniema,” he said in a video shared by Le7 TV.

“Wydad is a very good team, one of the best clubs in Africa. So we thank God that at least we didn't concede that much. ‏Three goals are not bad for us, but we try and recover them in Nairobi.”

Nairobi United will now host AS Maniema at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, on Sunday, November 30, in a crucial match where the Kenyan side will desperately seek a turnaround after their opening defeat.

However, they face a formidable challenge against AS Maniema, who arrive in Nairobi with confidence following an impressive 2-0 victory over Azam FC in their first fixture.

Nairobi United must deliver a disciplined performance to secure their first points and reignite their CAF Confederation Cup campaign against the tough Congolese opponents.