Just a few months ago, Nairobi United were lifting the National Super League (NSL) title. Now, Nairobi United beat Gor Mahia, the 21-time FKF champions and Kenya’s most decorated club, to clinch the Mozzart Bet Cup and secure a place in the CAF Confederation Cup. This marks a historic double for a team promoted to the top flight only weeks ago.
The final was packed with emotion, intensity, and star power. Football dignitaries such as FKF President Hussein Mohammed, former Harambee Stars striker Dennis Oliech, ex-Mathare United coach Salim Ali, and Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja graced the occasion.
Sakaja’s presence was significant—not just as a fan, but as a proud backer of a club that now represents the capital on a continental stage. Nairobi United beat Gor Mahia, but they also won the hearts of many, showing grit, strategy, and mental toughness.
RECOMMENDED:
How the Game Unfolded: A Tactical Masterclass
The match exploded into action in the 6th minute when Frank Ouya scored with a brilliant scissors kick, capitalizing on a poor clearance following a long throw-in by Kamala. Gor Mahia’s defense, sluggish from the outset, failed to clear their lines, and Ouya made them pay with an acrobatic finish that set the tone for the game.
Gor Mahia tried to respond but struggled to break down Nairobi United’s compact and aggressive man-marking system. Goalkeeper Kevin Omondi kept Gor in the game with several crucial saves, preventing Nairobi from doubling their lead before the break.
In the 37th minute, Gor finally found their breakthrough. On-loan midfielder Ben Stanley Omondi scored a stunning equalizer from outside the box, sending the K’Ogalo faithful into a frenzy and breathing life into what had been a frustrating season.
Second-Half Surge: Nairobi United Seal the Deal
After the restart, both teams came out firing. Gor Mahia, driven by the chants of their fans, pushed forward aggressively. However, their poor passing and lack of cohesion in midfield cost them dearly.
In the 74th minute, Nairobi United beat Gor Mahia again, this time with a thunderbolt from Enock Machaka. A poor pass by Gor’s midfield was intercepted and quickly worked into space by Duncan Omala, who found Machaka unmarked. He unleashed a 30-yard rocket that left Gor keeper Omondi with no chance.
Missed Penalty Sinks Gor Mahia’s Hopes
In the 85th minute, Gor Mahia had a lifeline. Starlet Austin Odhiambo was fouled inside the box, and the referee awarded a penalty amidst protests from Nairobi United players. Alpha Chris Onyango stepped up to take it, but keeper Ernest Mohammed guessed right, diving to save and preserve Nairobi United’s 2-1 lead.
With only minutes remaining, Gor Mahia threw everything forward but resorted to shooting from awkward distances, their composure clearly rattled. Nairobi United defended expertly during the four minutes of added time, absorbing pressure and securing a famous 2-1 win.
By clinching this victory, Nairobi United beat Gor Mahia to not only win their first-ever major trophy but also become the first second-tier Kenyan club since Mathare United in 1998 to earn a ticket to the CAF Confederation Cup.
This historic moment showcases the changing landscape of Kenyan football. The dominance of traditional giants like Gor Mahia is now being challenged by young, ambitious, and well-organized teams like Nairobi United.
The victory also came with a Sh2 million cash prize, which will go a long way in helping the club prepare for its new top-flight journey and continental adventure.
Chaos After the Final Whistle
Unfortunately, the emotional loss triggered unrest among Gor Mahia fans. After the final whistle confirmed that Nairobi United beat Gor Mahia, angry supporters invaded the pitch, forcing players and staff to flee to the changing rooms. Security personnel were forced to use tear gas and rubber bullets to restore order — a sobering reminder of the deep passions in local football.
While the on-field brilliance of Nairobi United stole the headlines, FKF and local security agencies will likely conduct a review of the matchday security breakdown.
