Nairobi United’s long-awaited CAF Confederation Cup group stage debut turned into a bruising night at Stade V Mohammed in Casablanca on Sunday, as Moroccan giants Wydad AC showcased their pedigree from the first whistle, leaving the Kenyan debutants with little respite and securing a 3–0 victory over the Mozzart Cup champions.
The tone of the match was set almost instantly. With just three minutes played, Ayoub Boucheta timed his run perfectly, drifting behind the Nairobi United back line to steer home after crisp approach play down the right. The early blow settled Wydad’s nerves and forced the visitors into an uncomfortable defensive posture, chasing shadows as the hosts dictated possession and tempo.
Wydad’s control grew with every passing minute, their midfield rotations repeatedly pulling Naibois out of shape. Just when Nairobi United appeared ready to escape to the interval with minimal damage, the Moroccan giants struck again. In the 44th minute, Mohamed Bouchouari surged from deep to finish off a sweeping team move, doubling the advantage and underscoring the gulf in experience on display.
The second half, however, brought a more spirited Nairobi United. Eager to claw their way back, they introduced fresh legs shortly after the hour mark and briefly thought they had found a lifeline. Brian Omondi swept the ball home in the 62nd minute after a promising move, but celebrations were cut short by the assistant referee’s raised flag for offside,a moment that summed up the visitors’ fortune on the night.
Despite enjoying better territory after the disallowed goal, turning that into real danger proved far more difficult. Wydad’s back line remained largely unmoved, and frustration crept in. Boniface Mzee’s yellow card in the 72nd minute highlighted the growing tension as Nairobi United continued to work hard without finding a breakthrough.
Muyoti rolled the dice again in the 82nd minute, withdrawing Karamor and Machaka for Ouya and Opondo, seeking extra energy in wide areas. But Wydad responded with composure, slowing the game down before delivering the decisive blow. In the 86th minute, substitute Mohamed Rayhi combined neatly with Walid Sabbar, lifting in the third goal to seal the contest and underline Wydad’s dominance.
The night deteriorated further deep into stoppage time when Brian Omondi, already on a booking, was shown a second yellow card for simulation in the penalty area. His dismissal at 90+ minutes left Nairobi United to finish the match with ten men, an abrupt end to a night that had promised hope moments earlier.
With the victory, Wydad move to the top of Group B after Matchday 1, edging Maniema Union on goal difference. For Nairobi United, the task now is recovery and recalibration as they prepare for their next assignment, hosting AS Maniema Union of the Democratic Republic of Congo in Nairobi , another stern test in a group that offers no breathing space. Maniema arrive with confidence after winning their opener 2–0 against Azam.
