Nairobi United to Face Gor Mahia in FKF Cup Final After Penalty Shootout Triumph

Courtesy

Nairobi United booked their place in the Mozzart Bet Cup final after a dramatic 1-1 draw and a 3-1 victory on penalties over Mara Sugar at a packed Dandora Stadium. The "NaiBois" now set their sights on silverware in what has been a dream cup run.

Nairobi United FC have booked their place in the FKF Mozzart Bet Cup final after a dramatic 1-1 draw and a 3-1 penalty shootout victory against Mara Sugar FC at a buzzing Dandora Stadium on Sunday. The win marks a historic moment for the club, who will now face Kenyan football giants Gor Mahia in a highly anticipated showdown for the cup.

It was a tense affair from start to finish. Nairobi United controlled much of the play, showing aggression and attacking intent, but couldn’t break through Mara Sugar’s resilient defense in the first half. The two sides went into the break goalless, with everything to play for in the second 45.

The game sprang to life shortly after halftime. Mara Sugar’s Michael Karamor, who had just come on as a substitute, found the back of the net in the 54th minute to silence the home crowd. But the NaiBois responded almost immediately through Lameck Omondi, who struck in the 58th minute to restore parity and re-ignite belief in the stands.

Despite late chances and tactical changes from both sides, the match ended 1-1 in regulation time, pushing the semifinal to penalties.

Under intense pressure, Nairobi United were composed and clinical. Eric Juma, Henry Thomas, and Fredrick Ngiela all converted their spot-kicks, while the defense and goalkeeper stood tall to deny Mara Sugar. Only Robert Obaga found the net for the visitors in the shootout, ending the tie 3-1 in Nairobi United’s favor.

This hard-fought victory sets up a dream final against record FKF Cup winners Gor Mahia, who also advanced via penalties after a 2-2 thriller against Murang’a Seal, also played at Dandora Stadium. Gor Mahia had to come from behind twice before securing a flawless 5-4 win in the shootout, showcasing their resilience and big-match temperament.

With the stage now set, the FKF Cup final promises fireworks. Nairobi United, riding high on momentum and hunger, will face a Gor Mahia side full of experience, legacy, and silverware ambition.