Nairobi United Captain Reveals Gor Mahia 2018/19 Blueprint He Believes Can Inspire Them to Upset Maniema Union

Nairobi United captain John Otieno is backing his side to claim their first-ever CAF Confederation Cup group-stage victory when they host DR Congo’s Maniema Union at Kasarani Stadium on Sunday evening.

United, the first Kenyan club to reach the group phase of the tournament since Gor Mahia in 2018/19, opened their campaign with a 3–0 loss away to Wydad Casablanca in Rabat. 

Otieno insists the team’s spirit remains intact and believes home advantage — and an attacking approach — could fuel a major upset.

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Speaking at Kasarani on Saturday, the skipper assured supporters that the team is poised for a response.

“We started badly in Morocco but we know we will redeem ourselves on Sunday. It is a tough challenge but the boys are ready, and we are ready to represent the nation. I am sure we will win,” Otieno said.

He added that Sunday’s match will be historic for the club and fans alike.

“It has been seven years since any team from this side played at this level, so fans will be excited to come. I’m sure we will make them proud and they will leave this place happy.”

United have been formidable at home throughout their continental journey, remaining unbeaten since the preliminary rounds — a record Otieno believes will hold firm.

“We have not lost at home since the Preliminary Rounds. We are giant killers. We will score and get all three points. That is a must.”

In Rabat, the Kenyan side took a more cautious approach, aiming to avoid a heavy defeat. Although it did not prevent Wydad’s quality from shining through, Otieno says the game plan will be very different at Kasarani — inspired by Gor Mahia’s famous 2018/19 home heroics when K’Ogalo stunned continental giants such as Zamalek and Petro de Luanda.

“We cannot approach the home match the same way we did away tactically. We were cautious not to concede a lot away, but at home, we will attack more,” he explained.

The captain also confirmed that some previously sidelined players have returned to fitness, giving the squad a boost ahead of the crucial fixture.

“Some players were unavailable through injury but are back for this game. I’m very optimistic we will get a good result here at home.”

Nairobi United will be aiming to reignite their “giant-killers” tag when they face Maniema Union on Sunday.