Everything to Know About Nairobi United’s CAF Confederation Cup Rivals Including Aziz Ki, Hakim Ziyech’s Wydad

Nairobi United have been placed in group B of the CAF Confederation Cup alongside Wydad FC, Azam and AS Maniema Union.

Nairobi United’s debut in the CAF Confederation Cup group stage has placed them in one of the tournament’s most competitive pools.

The FKF Premier League newcomers will face Moroccan giants Wydad Casablanca, Tanzanian contenders Azam FC, and DR Congo’s AS Maniema Union in Group B.

The draw sets the stage for a high-stakes campaign, with Nairobi United preparing to face clubs with deep continental experience and star-studded rosters.

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As they seek to replicate Gor Mahia by becoming the first side since the record Kenyan champions to seal a place in the knockout rounds, here is everything you need to know about their opponents, and what is at stake.

Wyydad Casablanca

Wydad Casablanca enters the group stage as the most decorated side in Group B. The Moroccan club, a multiple-time CAF Champions League winner, has reinforced its squad with two high-profile signings: former Chelsea and Ajax winger Hakim Ziyech as well as Stéphane Aziz Ki.

Ziyech, brings European pedigree and creative flair to Wydad’s attack. His return to Moroccan football is seen as a strategic move ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, as he seeks to impress closer home in order to make the Moroccan side for the tournament.

Joining him is Aziz Ki, the former Young Africans SC midfielder, who completed his transfer to Wydad in May 2025. Known for his vision and technical ability, Aziz Ki adds depth and control to the midfield.

Together, Ziyech and Aziz Ki form one of the most formidable duos in the competition, posing a significant challenge to Nairobi United’s defensive setup. On top of that, former Watford winger and brother to Souffiane Amrabat, Noordin, is also a permanent fixture of the side at 38. Thembinkosi Lorch of South Africa is another big gun in their arsenal.

They are the favorites to many to clinch the title, having appeared in continental competitions in each of the last nine years.

In their history, they have won the CAF Champions League three times, including as recently as 2022, and will be hungry to return to the premier competition as quickly as possible by making a statement through winning the title, which makes it a difficult proposition for Nairobi United.

Azam FC

Azam FC, based in Dar es Salaam, is a familiar name in East African football. While not as internationally decorated as Wydad, Azam has consistently performed well in regional competitions in recent years and is known for its disciplined tactical structure.

Their home ground is expected to be a difficult venue for visiting teams, with Nairobi United likely to face a hostile atmosphere and a well-organized opponent.

It is also the first time in their history that they are participating in the group stages of a continental competition, despite several appearances in the preliminary rounds.

AS Maniema Union

AS Maniema Union represents the unpredictable element in Group B. The Congolese side is known for its physical style and aggressive pressing, often unsettling more technically refined teams.

While they lack the star power of Wydad, their ability to grind out results makes them a dangerous opponent.

Founded in 2005, they participated in the group stages of the CAF Champions League in 2024, and 2025 will mark the second year in a row they have made the group stages of continental competitions.

Nairobi United’s journey to the group stage has been nothing short of remarkable. After a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Etoile Sportive du Sahel, the Kenyan side secured its place among Africa’s elite.

This marks their first appearance in the CAF Confederation Cup group stage, a significant achievement for a club in its debut FKF Premier League season.

The team will rely on tactical discipline, counter-attacking speed, and a fearless mentality as they navigate a challenging schedule across North, East, and Central Africa.

Against Wydad, Nairobi United will need to stay compact and disrupt the rhythm of Ziyech and Aziz Ki. Matches against Azam FC may offer more balance, with set-pieces and transitions playing a key role. Against Maniema Union, physical resilience and adaptability will be essential.

Former Arsenal and Cameroon midfielder Alex Song recently encouraged Nairobi United to “fear no one,” emphasizing belief and preparation as the keys to success.

Group B promises drama, intensity, and high-quality football. For Nairobi United, it is an opportunity to test themselves against some of the continent’s best and to continue writing a compelling chapter in Kenyan football history.

Further coverage will include match previews, tactical breakdowns, and player spotlights as the tournament progresses.

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