Nairobi United, the recently promoted side famously known as the “Naibois,” have etched their name in Kenyan football history by clinching their first major trophy—the 2025 Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Cup. In a thrilling final held at the Ulinzi Sports Complex, Nairobi United stunned the giants Gor Mahia with a 2-1 victory, completing a remarkable fairy-tale season. Signalling the rise of a new football powerhouse in the country.
The match started brightly for Nairobi United, with Frank Ouya opening the scoring as early as the sixth minute. Ouya capitalised on a defensive lapse following a long throw-in. Executing a spectacular overhead kick that sent the Nairobi United fans into wild celebrations. Gor Mahia fought back through Ben Stanley Omondi, who levelled the score with a powerful strike in the 37th minute.
The second half saw a tense battle until Enock Machaka sealed the victory for Nairobi United with a stunning long-range goal in the 72nd minute. His strike flew past the Gor Mahia goalkeeper, sparking jubilant scenes among the Naibois supporters.
This victory crowned Nairobi United’s perfect season. After winning the National Super League (NSL) with an impressive 72 points, the club secured promotion to the Kenyan Premier League. Now they have their first-ever major silverware. Head coach Nicholas Muyoti praised the team’s belief, resilience, and winning mentality. Highlighting how the squad learned from early setbacks and grew stronger as the season progressed.
On the other hand, Gor Mahia endured their worst season in recent memory. The club not only lost the FKF Cup final but also failed to defend their Kenyan Premier League title, claimed by Kenya Police FC, another underdog. This marked a significant downturn for Gor Mahia, who had been the dominant force in Kenyan football for years.
Nairobi United’s FKF Cup triumph also earns them a historic ticket to represent Kenya in the CAF Confederation Cup next season. Not to mention a Sh2 million cash prize. Giant-killing performances marked their journey to the final. They eliminated several top-tier teams, including last year’s finalists KCB and former champions Tusker and Kakamega Homeboyz.
The club’s transformation was notably boosted by the acquisition by Nairobi Governor Sakaja Johnson through the Sakaja Foundation last year. It injected vital investment in youth development and infrastructure, changing the club’s fortunes and ambitions.