Nairobi United Make History After Dramatic Shootout Win Over Étoile Sportive du Sahel

In one of the most thrilling nights in Kenyan football history, Nairobi United defied all odds to reach the CAF Confederation Cup group stage, defeating Tunisian giants Étoile Sportive du Sahel 7–6 on post-match penalties after a 2–2 aggregate draw at the Sousse Olympic Stadium.

Carrying a 2–0 advantage from the first leg in Nairobi, the Kenyan debutants walked into a charged atmosphere in Sousse, where the home side attacked relentlessly from the start. Étoile finally broke the deadlock five minutes into the second half, sparking wild celebrations and setting up a tense final stretch.

Nairobi United fought bravely, defending with remarkable discipline and teamwork. They absorbed wave after wave of Étoile pressure, keeping their shape and composure, while still managing to create dangerous chances on the counter attack that kept the hosts on edge throughout the second half. But heartbreak struck deep into stoppage time when Étoile found a late equalizer, leveling the tie on aggregate and sending the game to penalties.

The shootout was pure drama. Kevin Oduor, who had already endured laser pointers from the stands throughout the match, became the night’s hero. Twice, he pulled off brilliant penalty saves, only for the referee to order retakes after ruling that he had left his line too early. Unshaken, Oduor refocused and stood tall, producing two legitimate saves before stepping up himself to take the decisive kick — and coolly slotting it into the net to seal a famous 7–6 victory.

It was a moment that summed up Nairobi United’s spirit: fearless, determined, and unbreakable.

For a team playing in their first-ever season in the Kenyan Premier League after earning promotion earlier this year, this achievement is nothing short of historic. From local grounds to conquering one of Africa’s football powerhouses, Nairobi United have written a new chapter in Kenyan football — one built on belief, unity, and sheer courage.