Nairobi United face a stern test as they travel to Casablanca to take on Moroccan giants Wydad Athletic Club in the CAF Confederation Cup group stage on Sunday night. The Kenyan newcomers will be looking to continue their impressive run in North Africa, having already eliminated Tunisian side Etoile du Sahel on penalties in the second preliminary round. However, they will face a far sterner challenge against Wydad, who comfortably overcame Ghana’s Asante Kotoko with a 6-1 aggregate win in the same stage.
The Naibos arrive in Morocco on the back of two consecutive league victories, keeping them seven points behind FKF Premier League leaders Gor Mahia, with two games in hand. Despite this momentum, Nairobi United have struggled defensively, failing to keep a clean sheet since their October 19 clash against Etoile du Sahel. They have conceded multiple goals against Sofapaka, Kariobangi Sharks, Bandari, and in the return leg against the Tunisian side, which could give Wydad confidence to exploit defensive gaps.
Wydad, in contrast, are enjoying a dominant season in Morocco, remaining unbeaten in the league while conceding just three goals in their last six matches and netting 12. The Moroccan side boasts attacking talents like Thembinkosi Lorch, who has scored five goals and provided three assists in ten appearances. Veteran winger Nordin Amrabat has also been influential, contributing with goals and assists in recent matches. Wydad will be without former Chelsea and Ajax forward Hakim Ziyech this weekend, but their depth still makes them formidable opponents.
Defensively, Nairobi United face a challenge with the absence of Yusuf Mainge, while Manzur Okwaro is likely to miss out due to injury. This could further test coach Salim Ali’s defensive strategies against the Moroccan giants.
This encounter marks the first meeting between Nairobi United and Wydad AC. The Naibos will aim to make a mark against North African opposition, hoping to repeat the success they enjoyed in Tunisia.
The match is scheduled to kick off at 10:00 PM Kenyan time and will be broadcast live on SuperSport TV and beIN Sports. Nairobi United will need to bring their A-game to navigate the hostile atmosphere of Larbi Zaouli Stadium and challenge one of Africa’s strongest clubs.
