Blow for Nairobi United as influential winger is ruled out of Zanzibar trip
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Reading Time: 2min | Tue. 27.01.26. | 10:55
Nairobi United have lost all three of their group-stage matches against Wydad Casablanca, US Maniema, and Azam FC
Nairobi United have confirmed that winger Ovella Ochieng sustained a shoulder injury during Sunday’s CAF Confederation Cup match, against Azam FC, and remains doubtful for the return leg in Zanzibar this weekend.
The pacey attacker, who was a constant threat down the right flank for the Naibois, was forced off just before halftime, with Charles Waibi coming on as his replacement.
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Nairobi United went on to lose the match 2–1 staged at the Nyayo National Stadium.
Following the loss, Nairobi are out of contention for a place in the quarterfinals, despite having three group stage matches to play.
Duncan Omalla had given the Naibois an early lead with a sumptuous strike, before Jephte Kitambala leveled matters for the ice cream makers.
A late own goal by Ernest Mohammed handed Azam FC maximum points.
The two sides meet again on Sunday at the Amaan Stadium, where the Tanzanian outfit will be aiming to complete a double over Godfrey Oduor’s men.
However, Nairobi United are likely to be without Ochieng, whose recovery timeline remains unclear.
“Michael Ovellah Ochieng’ was forced off on a stretcher a few minutes before the halftime break after sustaining a shoulder injury in our CAF Confederation Cup match against Azam FC on Sunday. We wish him a quick recovery,” the club said in a statement.
Should Ochieng fail to recover in time, the Naibois may turn to Waibi to start on the flank, with other options including Majaliwa Charo.
New signing Mustafa Kizza, primarily a left-back, is also capable of filling in on the wing.
Nairobi United have lost all three of their group-stage matches against Wydad Casablanca, US Maniema, and Azam FC, leaving them rooted to the bottom of the standings without a point.
With Wydad and Maniema leading the group on seven points each, United will be playing for pride in their remaining fixtures.
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