Nairobi United’s remarkable rise continues as the Kenyan debutants were drawn in Group B of the 2025–26 CAF Confederation Cup ,Nairobi United will face Moroccan powerhouse Wydad Casablanca, Congolese side AS Maniema Union, and Tanzanian debutants Azam FC. It is a competitive pool that promises both challenge and opportunity for the youthful Kenyan outfit.

This draw is another milestone in a dream run that has defied every expectation. From gaining promotion to the Kenyan Premier League last season to now sharing the continental stage with some of Africa’s elite, the Mozzart Cup champions Nairobi united have embodied resilience and belief. Their qualification for the group stage in their debut CAF campaign already made history for Kenyan football, and the challenge ahead now presents an opportunity to measure their progress against clubs of established pedigree.

Towering above the group in terms of reputation are Wydad Casablanca, one of Africa’s true football giants. The Moroccan powerhouse boasts an illustrious record with three CAF Champions League titles ; in 1992, 2017, and 2021 and two runners-up finishes in 2018/19 and 2022/23. Renowned for their passionate fan base and consistent performances at the highest level, Wydad’s presence in the CAF Confederation Cup this season marks a rare change of scenery. It is their first appearance in the second-tier competition since 2013, following a rare domestic slip that cost them a Champions League slot.Even so, Wydad’s stature remains monumental. They were among the seven African clubs selected to represent the continent at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup in the United States , a testament to their enduring influence. Heading into this campaign, they will look to reassert dominance by adding another continental trophy to their decorated cabinet.

This season, they have been strengthened by the return of Hakim Ziyech, who rejoined after an illustrious spell in Europe that included a stint with Chelsea, alongside the experienced Nordin Amrabat, who also returned after years abroad.

AS Maniema Union, representing DR Congo, return to CAF competition for the second consecutive season. They made their debut in the 2024/25 CAF Champions League but exited at the group stage after finishing bottom of their pool. Now switching to the CAF Confederation Cup, Maniema see this as a chance to redeem themselves in a more balanced contest. The Kindu-based club has built a reputation for athletic, fast-paced football and a difficult home atmosphere ; factors that make them a tricky opponent for any side traveling to Central Africa. Their growing continental experience and hunger for progress could make them serious contenders for a knockout place.

Azam FC of Tanzania, meanwhile, are making their first-ever appearance in the CAF Confederation Cup group stage ; a proud milestone in the club’s history. Over the years, Azam have risen steadily to join Simba SC and Yanga SC as one of Tanzania’s top football institutions.

With solid infrastructure, professional management, and a well-balanced squad, the ice cream makers will be eager to mark their debut with a strong showing. Their possession-based play and set-piece strength, coupled with an ambitious spirit, could inspire a fairy-tale run in this year’s tournament.

CAF has confirmed that only the opening two rounds of group fixtures will be played before the end of the year due to the upcoming Arab Cup and AFCON 2025. The remaining matchdays will resume after January.

CAF Confederation Cup – Group B Fixtures (First Two Matchdays)

Matchday 1 (November 21–23)

Wydad AC (Morocco) vs Nairobi United (Kenya)

AS Maniema Union (DR Congo) vs Azam FC (Tanzania)

Matchday 2 (November 28–30)

Azam FC (Tanzania) vs Wydad AC (Morocco)

Nairobi United (Kenya) vs AS Maniema Union (DR Congo)

For Nairobi United, the stage is set. From a newly promoted side to Kenya’s symbol of ambition on the continental front, their next challenge begins against one of Africa’s most decorated clubs.