KASARANI, Nairobi, June 30 – Nairobi United FC are this year’s Mozzart Bet Cup winners after defeating Gor Mahia 2-1 in a thrilling match played at the Ulinzi Sports Complex on Sunday evening.
Known affectionately as NaiBois, the team struck first in the 7th minute when Frank Ouya capitalised on a goalmouth scramble, sending a shot past Gor Mahia’s goalkeeper, Kevin Omondi, which nestled in the bottom right corner.
Kogalo equalised in the 37th minute with a well-placed shot from Ben Omondi, who benefited from a precise pass by Shariff Musa just before halftime.
The second half kicked off with high intensity as both teams vied for the prestigious trophy.
In a stunning moment in the 76th minute, Enock Mashaka secured the victory for Nairobi United with a powerful long-range shot that found its mark in the bottom right corner, igniting ecstasy among the NaiBois fans.
In a match marked by near misses, both teams had goals from Benson Omalla and Michael Karamo disallowed for offside.
Late in the game, Gor’s Alpha Onyango had a chance to equalise from the penalty spot in the 86th minute, but his attempt was brilliantly saved by NaiBois goalkeeper Matthews Mulili, solidifying their reputation as “giant killers.”
Road to Glory
This victory adds another feather to Nairobi United’s cap, following their recent success in the National Super League, which saw them promoted to the FKF Premier League for the upcoming season.
The takeover of the club by Nairobi Governor Sakaja Johnson through the Sakaja Foundation in September 2024 proved transformative.
It facilitated substantial investments in youth development, infrastructure, and revitalised the club’s management and outlook.
Nairobi United has captured the hearts of Kenyan football fans with its resilience, tactical prowess, and thrilling penalty shootout victories throughout the tournament.
As a National Super League side, they have defied expectations, eliminating four FKF Premier League teams.
Nairobi United’s Mozzart Bet Cup journey began in the Round of 64 with a convincing 3-1 victory over Global Connection, setting the stage for their remarkable run.
In the round of 32, they faced former champions Tuskers FC, progressing via penalties after a 1-1 draw.
They continued their streak against last year’s finalists, KCB, finishing another goalless draw before clinching victory through penalties.
In the Quarter Finals, they secured a solid 2-0 win against Kakamega Homeboys
The semi-final showdown pitted them against Mara Sugar, resulting in a hard-fought 1-1 draw, leading to yet another successful penalty shootout, where they triumphed 3-1 to book their place in the final against Gor Mahia.
Under the guidance of head coach Nicholas Muyoti, Nairobi United not only takes home Sh2 million in prize money but will also represent Kenya in next season’s CAF Confederation Cup.
In the third-place playoff, Murang’a Seal secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory against Mara Sugar, earning Sh750,000, while Kenya Police will head to the CAF Champions League after clinching the FKF-PL 2025 League title.
