Nairobi United technical director Salim Ali has challenged his squad to finish their CAF Confederation Cup campaign with pride, despite a difficult start that has left them bottom of Group B with zero points. With four defeats so far, the Naibois face Moroccan giants Wydad Casablanca at Nyayo Stadium on Sunday before travelling to the Democratic Republic of Congo to meet AS Maniema Union on February 15.
Salim acknowledged the uphill task but insisted that the team can still make their final matches meaningful. “We know the challenge is tough, but football is about spirit and resilience. Our boys must show courage in these last two games,” he said.
Nairobi United’s maiden continental campaign has been testing. They lost 3–0 to Wydad in Morocco, 2–1 and 1–0 to Tanzanian side Azam FC at home and in Zanzibar, respectively, and most recently fell 1–0 to AS Maniema at Nyayo Stadium. Salim encouraged his players to turn lessons from these setbacks into growth. “Every match teaches us something. We have learned our weaknesses and now must translate that into strength on the pitch,” he added.
He believes the remaining fixtures are an opportunity to gain respect and valuable experience. “Facing top teams like Wydad and Maniema exposes our players to high-level football. We must seize this chance to grow,” he said.
Salim stressed the importance of balance, confidence, and teamwork. “We must be organised defensively while taking calculated risks in attack. Football is as much in the mind as it is on the legs,” he said. He also plans to assess younger players during the final games, noting that the experience gained is priceless.
Although qualification is no longer possible, Salim emphasised that a strong finish still matters. “We may not advance, but we can leave a mark. Our performances must reflect ambition and professionalism,” he said, urging players to commit fully and honour their fans, the city, and themselves.
With Wydad’s attacking prowess and Maniema’s resilience, Nairobi United face tough challenges, but Salim remains optimistic. “These are demanding matches, but we will fight for every ball, every chance, and every moment,” he said.
