CASABLANCA, Morocco – Nairobi United’s historic maiden voyage into the CAF Confederation Cup group stage began with a sobering 3-0 loss to Wydad Casablanca at the Stade Larbi Zaouli on Sunday, November 23, 2025. The result places the Kenyan FKF Cup champions at the bottom of Group B after the opening round of fixtures.

The gulf in continental experience was evident from the outset. Wydad, three-time CAF Champions League winners, asserted their dominance immediately. Ayoub Bouchta opened the scoring just three minutes into the match, converting a pass from South African international Thembinkosi Lorch to give the hosts a dream start. The early goal, according to Nairobi United's post-match analysis, disrupted their defensive game plan, which was designed to absorb pressure and exploit counter-attacking opportunities.

Despite the early setback, the Kenyan side, popularly known as 'Naibois', showed moments of resilience. Goalkeeper Kevin Oduor, the hero of their penalty shootout victory against Etoile du Sahel in the preliminary round, was called into action multiple times. He made a notable save to deny a stinging effort from former Yanga SC midfielder Stephane Aziz Ki just minutes after the opening goal. Nairobi United's most significant chance of the first half fell to forward Shami Kibwana, who was played through on goal but sent his shot wide.

Wydad's relentless pressure eventually paid off again just before halftime. Right-back Mohamed Bouchouari found the net with a well-taken strike in the 44th minute, doubling the Moroccan side's advantage and leaving the Kenyan debutants with a mountain to climb in the second half.

A Lesson in Continental Football

The second half saw Wydad control possession, with statistics showing they commanded over 72% of the ball throughout the match. Nairobi United struggled to create clear-cut chances against a well-organized and experienced defence. The hosts registered 16 total shots with 5 on target, compared to Nairobi United's 5 shots, none of which tested the Wydad goalkeeper.

Nairobi United's assistant coach, Salim Ali, had acknowledged the challenge pre-match, noting Wydad's potent forward line but also pointing to potential defensive weaknesses they hoped to exploit. However, the Kenyan side, missing suspended defender Yusuf Mainge, found it difficult to implement their strategy against the Moroccan powerhouse. A late goal from substitute Mohamed Rayhi in the 86th minute sealed the comprehensive 3-0 victory for Wydad Casablanca.

The defeat marks a challenging start for Nairobi United in their first-ever continental group stage campaign, a feat achieved after a remarkable rise that saw them win the domestic cup while in the second tier and gain promotion to the Kenyan Premier League for the 2024/25 season. They are the first Kenyan club to reach this stage of the tournament since Gor Mahia in the 2018/2019 season.

In the other Group B fixture, AS Maniema Union of DR Congo defeated Tanzania's Azam FC 2-0. This result leaves Wydad Casablanca at the top of the group on goal difference. Nairobi United will now turn their attention to their next fixture, a home tie against AS Maniema Union, which will be crucial in their bid to get their campaign back on track. Wydad will travel to Tanzania to face Azam FC.