Africa-Press – Kenya. Newly appointed Nairobi United head coach Godfrey ‘Solo’ Oduor says he is ready to hit the ground running as the FKF Cup champions prepare for their Group B CAF Confederation Cup clash against Tanzania’s Azam United at Nyayo Stadium on Sunday.
Oduor, who joins Naibois from South Sudanese side Jamus FC, where he served as assistant coach since 2024, is excited to take charge of a club with continental ambitions.
“It’s an honour to lead Nairobi United at such a critical moment in their history,” Oduor said.
“The club has shown what they can achieve domestically, and now the focus is on translating that to continental success.”
He acknowledged the pressure of stepping into the role after Nicholas Muyoti joined SportPesa League champions Police FC, but insisted he is prepared for the challenge.
“I understand the expectations, especially after Muyoti’s work,” Oduor said. “My job is to build on that foundation and take the team forward, not just maintain it.”
“Our focus is on Sunday’s game,” he said. “Azam are a strong side, but we believe in our preparation and our players’ ability to rise to the occasion at home.”
Oduor emphasised the importance of maximising home advantage, particularly in the quest for a first win in continental football.
“Playing at Nyayo is special,” he said. “Our supporters can inspire the team, and we will use that energy to claim our first points in the group.”
Drawing on his experience in South Sudan and under renowned coaches such as Wubetu Abate and Cassa Mbungo, Oduor highlighted the value of tactical discipline.
“I’ve learned from some of the best in African football,” he said. “Those lessons about organisation, patience, and reading the game will be central to our strategy against Azam.”
He also touched on his philosophy for integrating players with differing experiences into a cohesive unit.
“Every player brings something unique,” Oduor said. “My role is to channel that talent into a collective strength. This group has quality, and we will make it count on Sunday.”
With aspirations extending beyond the immediate CAF CC fixture, Oduor outlined his broader vision for the season.
“Our targets are clear: a top-three finish in the league, a Mozzart Bet Cup defence, and making a statement in continental football,” he said. “It’s ambitious, but ambition is what drives progress.”
On working with a squad that recently won the Mozzart Bet Cup, he noted the need to balance respect for past achievements with a forward-looking approach.
“The players know what they are capable of,” Oduor said. “I will respect their journey while pushing them to reach higher standards every match.”
Finally, Oduor conveyed his determination to leave a mark at Nairobi United. “I didn’t come here just to manage games,” he said.
“I came to create a legacy, to help this club grow, and to ensure that when we step on the continental stage, we do so with pride, preparation, and confidence.”
Moroccan giants Wydad AC and DR Congo’s Maniema lead the group six points.
