Africa-Press – Kenya. Nairobi United face a crucial test at Nyayo Stadium this afternoon as they look to put recent setbacks behind them when they host struggling APS Bomet.
Head coach Godfrey ‘Solo’ Oduor is confident his side has the quality and belief to secure all three points. The fixture renews a familiar rivalry, with both sides having earned promotion to the Kenyan Premier League last season after finishing first and second in the National Super League.
Nairobi United sit 10th on 25 points with three matches in hand, while APS Bomet are second from bottom on 15 points. The Naibois return to league action fresh from a narrow 1-0 defeat to Tanzanian side Azam in the CAF Confederation Cup in Zanzibar on Sunday, a result Oduor insists will not derail their domestic focus. “We can’t dwell on yesterday. CAF is behind us now,” Oduor said. “This is about the league and getting points.”
He backed his squad to deliver at home. “The team is strong and prepared. APS Bomet will push, but we have the quality to win.”
Oduor believes attacking cohesion will be key, with Nairobi United boosted by the arrival of Harambee Stars striker Benson Omala, the former Gor Mahia forward and 2024 Kenyan Premier League Golden Boot winner.
“We have players who can create chances,” he said. “It’s about patience and taking our opportunities.”
He also highlighted fitness and focus. “We’ve managed recovery well. Everyone is sharp,” Oduor said. “APS Bomet will look for mistakes, so concentration is critical.”
Home support, he added, could prove decisive. “Nyayo is our advantage. The fans lift the team.” APS Bomet head coach Sammy ‘Pamzo’ Omollo, however, believes his under-pressure side can spring a surprise despite their league position. “Nairobi United are tough, but we won’t go there to hide,” Pamzo said. “We’ll fight for every ball.”
He pointed to their recent 3-3 draw with Shabana as evidence of potential. “That result showed we can compete. We can score goals, but we must be sharper defensively.” Pamzo stressed mental strength and discipline.
“We must stay confident, stick to our plan and take our chances,” he said. “Nairobi United will have possession, so we need to be smart and hit them on the break.”
He acknowledged the challenge of playing at Nyayo but backed his players’ experience. “It’s a tough stadium, but we have players who have been here before. We must stay calm and focused.”
Nairobi United versus APS Bomet promises a lively contest of ambition against survival instincts, with form and home advantage favouring the hosts, but Bomet arrive determined to upset the odds.
