NEC vs Nairobi United: Preview, Time and Where to Watch as FKF Cup Champions Make Continental Bow

Kenya’s CAF Confederation Cup representatives, Nairobi United FC, are set to make their historic debut in continental football when they face Uganda’s NEC FC in the preliminary round first leg at Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo, on Saturday, 20th September 2025.

The FKF Cup champions arrive as the ultimate underdogs-turned-headliners as they shocked the country by lifting the domestic cup as National Super League champions, becoming only the second lower-division side in 18 years (after Sofapaka in 2007) to achieve the feat.

The Naiboiz's magical run featured dramatic penalty shootout wins over Tusker FC and KCB FC, a 2-1 quarterfinal scalp of Kakamega Homeboyz, and a 3-1 semifinal shootout triumph over Mara Sugar before Ezekiel Nyanjiga’s goal sank Gor Mahia in the final.

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Hosts NEC, the Uganda Premier League runners-up, come into the game seeking redemption after a bruising 2-0 FUFA Super 8 final defeat to SC Villa.

Coach Hussein Mbalangu’s side were exposed defensively and blunt in attack, prompting calls for tactical tweaks before this crucial tie.

With experienced campaigners like Muzamir Mutyaba, Paul Mucureezi, and Siraje Sentamu, NEC will still pose a formidable challenge.

The first leg kicks off at 8:00 PM EAT on Saturday, 20th September 2025, under the floodlights of the iconic Nakivubo Stadium in Kampala.

A big turnout is expected, with NEC fans eager to roar their team to victory and Kenyan supporters making the trip to back Nairobi United on their historic night.

Fans back home will not miss a second of the action — the game will be broadcast live on SuperSport and FUFA TV. Social media coverage will also provide minute-by-minute updates for those streaming or following on their phones.

The second leg is scheduled for Saturday, 27th September 2025 at a yet-to-be-confirmed venue in Nairobi.

A strong first-leg performance will be crucial for Nairobi United as they aim to bring the tie home with an advantage and progress to face either Al Ahli Madani of Sudan or ES Sportive of Tunisia in the next round.

Coach Nicholas Muyoti is expected to stay true to the fearless, attacking football that defined Nairobi United’s cup-winning campaign.

Expect Enock Machaka to lead the line, with creative support behind him and a midfield double pivot designed to break up NEC’s rhythm. Muyoti’s men will be eager to grab an away goal and put the Ugandans under pressure ahead of the return leg.

NEC boss Hussein Mbalangu will likely retain his trusted core but could shuffle the frontline after their Super 8 struggles. Titus Ssematimba and Hudson Mbalire may come into contention to provide attacking spark, while their defensive setup will aim to keep Nairobi United’s counterattacks at bay.

NEC Probable XI:

Ssebwalunyo (GK), Atendele, Kiiza, Bbuule, Okao, Sentamu, Sseremba, Mutyaba, Mucureezi, Rwothomio, Media.