CAFCC: AS Maniema Union shut out Nairobi United

Nairobi United failed to use their home advantage after going down 1-0 against AS Maniema Union in their second match from the CAF Confederation Cup (CAFCC) group stage at Kasarani Stadium on Sunday.

Having lost their Group B opener 3-0 against Wydad AC away in Morocco, United needed a win on home soil to keep alive their chances of reaching the group stages for the first time in their history.

However, they looked shaky at the start of the game with Maniema forcing the first corner with only three minutes played. United failed to make a shot on target until the 12th minute when Duncan Omala volleyed in a cross from the right but the keeper did well to make a superb save.

Five minutes later, United responded with their first attack of the game. A well laid pass from Enock Machaka found striker Omala in a good position, but before he could pull the trigger, the linesman’s flag went up.

In the 21st minute, a golden opportunity presented itself for Maniema, but a looping ball from striker Christian Balako went over the bar.

United came close to breaking the deadlock six minutes later when Omala sprinted up before dribbling past two Maniema defenders. However, the young striker unleashed a shot which missed the target and was not able to trouble Ogundare Detan.

In the second half, United started strongly but could not break the deadlock. The visiting side took advantage of United’s missed chances to score what turned out to be the winner in the 66rh minute.
Substitute Jeancy Mboma bundled in a superb effort from outside the area past United goalkeeper Kevin Oduor.

Having won their first game 2-0 against Azam FC, the Congolese side knew the lead could give them their second victory of the campaign.

Maniema resorted to defending while trying to get United on counter attacks and the final whistle went with the win taking them level with Wydad with six points at the top of the group.