National Super League (NSL) champions Nairobi United made history on Sunday by winning the FKF Cup, defeating Kenyan Premier League giants Gor Mahia 2-1 in a dramatic final. The win completes a remarkable domestic double for the newly promoted side and earns them a spot in the CAF Confederation Cup next season.
A Match Full of Drama and Moments of Brilliance
Nairobi United came into the FKF Cup final with momentum and confidence, and it showed early in the match. The team broke the deadlock in the first half through Frank Ouya, who executed a stunning bicycle kick from the edge of the box after capitalizing on a defensive error during a throw-in. The strike left Gor Mahia goalkeeper Kevin Omondi with no chance and gave Nairobi United a 1-0 lead.
However, Gor Mahia responded quickly. In the 36th minute, Ben Stanley finished off a brilliant counterattack. A low cross from Musa Sherif bypassed Austin Odhiambo but found Stanley, who curled the ball into the far corner to make it 1-1.
Second-Half Magic Seals It for Nairobi United
The decisive moment came in the second half, courtesy of Enock Machaka, a former Bandari FC midfielder. In the 73rd minute, Machaka unleashed a powerful long-range strike that rocketed into the net, putting Nairobi United ahead once again and shifting the momentum firmly in their favor.
Gor Mahia had a chance to draw level in the 86th minute when Austin Odhiambo was brought down inside the box. A penalty was awarded, but Alpha Onyango failed to convert, missing a golden opportunity to equalize. Nairobi United held firm in the closing moments to secure a famous victory.
Nairobi United’s Historic FKF Cup Run
The FKF Cup win was the culmination of an impressive run by Nairobi United, who defeated several top-tier clubs along the way, including:
- Tusker FC
- KCB FC
- Kakamega Homeboyz
- Mara Sugar (Semi-final)
- Gor Mahia (Final)
Their success as newly promoted Premier League entrants underscores their rapid rise in Kenyan football.
Tensions Boil Over for Gor Mahia
After the final whistle, emotions ran high among Gor Mahia supporters. A section of frustrated fans confronted coach Zedekiah Otieno, who took charge late in the season after the exit of Sinisa Mihich. The loss adds pressure on the club’s technical bench following a disappointing campaign.
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Bronze for Murang’a SEAL
Earlier in the day, Murang’a SEAL secured third place with a narrow 1-0 win over Mara Sugar. The result capped off a dramatic season for Yusuf Chipo’s side, who avoided relegation on the final day of the Kenyan Premier League season.
Conclusion
With the FKF Cup and NSL title in hand, Nairobi United have officially arrived on the big stage. Their double success and upcoming participation in the CAF Confederation Cup mark a new chapter in Kenyan football.
