Nairobi United return to domestic duty this Saturday with a point to prove as they host Bidco United in a crucial SportPesa League clash at the Ulinzi Sports Complex from 3pm EAT.
For the Naibois, the fixture presents an opportunity to steady the ship after what has been a bruising debut campaign in the CAF Confederation Cup.
Competing on the continental stage for the first time, Nairobi United endured a steep learning curve against seasoned opposition.
They opened their group stage journey with a 3-0 defeat to Wydad Athletic Club in Morocco before falling 1-0 at Kasarani Stadium against As Maniema Union. A 2-1 loss at home to Azam FC was followed by a narrow 1-0 defeat away, followed by a narrow 1-0 loss at home against Wydad Athletic Club in the return leg while AS Maniema Union completed their misery with a 3-0 demolition in DR Congo.
Nairobi United chase confidence-boosting victory as Bidco fight to stay afloat
The continental adventure ended without a single win, but head coach Godfrey ‘Solo’ Oduor believes the experience will ultimately shape his side into a stronger unit. Now back to focusing on the league, the tactician wants an immediate response.
“I expect the boys to be lively in this game and fight for the three points because we need that to boost our confidence so it is important for us to get a win,” Oduor said ahead of the tie.
Nairobi United currently sit 10th on the table with 25 points from 17 matches, having played three games fewer due to their continental commitments. They have scored 21 goals and conceded 19 so far.
However, defensive lapses at home remain a concern, with the side conceding at least one goal in each of their eight home league matches this season. Their last outing in local action ended in a disappointing 2-1 defeat to APS Bomet, a result they will be desperate to respond to.
Left back Mustapha Kizza echoed his coach’s sentiments, emphasizing the importance of returning to winning ways. “We want to give our best to get maximum points,” he stated.
Standing in their way is a wounded Bidco United side equally hungry for redemption. The Thika-based outfit are reeling from a heavy 4-1 loss to Kakamega Homeboyz and are winless in their last 15 league matches, losing more than half of those encounters.
Under coach Akhulia, Bidco have conceded 22 goals and scored 12 in 20 matches. Despite goalkeeper Issa Emuria registering seven clean sheets, the team finds itself in the
relegation zone with 16 points.
With 14 matches left to salvage their season, Bidco will draw confidence from their first-leg meeting, where Herman Ngala struck in the second minute after a neat exchange with Victor Kunyili to seal a 1-0 win over Nairobi United at Sportpesa Arena.
Saturday’s encounter, kicking off at 3pm (EAT), could prove pivotal for both sides one seeking revival after continental heartbreak, the other fighting for survival. The match will be live on Azam Sports.