Wydad AC are preparing to host Kenyan side Nairobi United in their opening CAF Confederation Cup group stage clash at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca on Sunday night. The Moroccan giants are confident about securing a strong start, but both coach Amine Benhachem and captain Nordin Amrabat are aware of one particular strength that could trouble them.
Amrabat, who previously played for Watford, said the international break provided the squad with valuable time to fine-tune ahead of the encounter. “We want a good start, and playing at home in front of our fans gives us an advantage,” he noted. “We analyzed their games and prepared well; our aim is clear — three points.”
Coach Benhachem emphasized that Nairobi United’s speed on transitions makes them a dangerous opponent. “They are fast on the counter-attack and can create problems if we are not cautious. We need to maintain possession, create spaces, and capitalize on our chances,” he said.
The Moroccan side plans to control the tempo while being wary of leaving gaps at the back. Benhachem stressed the importance of balancing attack and defense: “We must be careful when pushing numbers forward because they can exploit spaces quickly. Our preparation has been thorough, and we are confident about scoring goals.”
Nairobi United are making their second trip to North Africa in a month after eliminating Tunisian side Etoile du Sahel in the second preliminary round. They aim to continue their impressive run and challenge the experienced Moroccan squad.
Wydad, currently atop the Moroccan league, bring a formidable attacking lineup featuring Amrabat, South African star Thembinkosi Lorch, and former Yanga forward Stephane Aziz Ki. The team will rely on this potent front to secure a home victory and set the tone for their CAF Confederation Cup campaign.
With Wydad’s confidence high and Nairobi United’s counter-attacking threat recognized, Sunday’s match promises to be a tactical battle between possession-based dominance and rapid transitions. Fans can expect an intense kickoff as both teams seek early momentum in the prestigious African competition.
