NEC FC’s long-awaited debut on the continental stage started in frustration as they surrendered a stoppage-time equaliser to draw 2-2 with Nairobi United in the CAF Confederation Cup preliminary round first leg at Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo.
The Ugandan side twice looked in control of the tie, especially after a spirited second-half fightback that saw Cromwell Rwothomio and Paul Mucureezi overturn a first-half deficit. But just as the Venoms’ fans prepared to celebrate a famous opening win, a lapse in concentration at the back gifted the visitors a dramatic equaliser.
It was Nairobi United, last season’s surprise package in Kenyan football, who struck first when Enock Machaka punished a defensive mix-up midway through the opening half. NEC, though dominant in possession, lacked sharpness in the final third and trailed at the break.
Coach Hussein Mbalangu’s tactical changes swung the game back in the hosts’ favour after halftime. Mustafa Kizza’s trademark delivery in the 78th minute was powered home by Rwothomio to bring NEC level, before Mucureezi’s composed penalty in added time appeared to have sealed victory.
But the story was not yet written. Deep into stoppage time, Nairobi United substitute Kibwana Mwinyi capitalised on goalkeeper Benjamin Ochan’s misjudged clearance to snatch a vital away goal and silence the Nakivubo crowd.
The result means NEC must now avoid defeat in Nairobi to stand any chance of progressing. A win or a high-scoring draw (3-3 or more) at Nyayo National Stadium on September 27 will be enough to see them through, but another 2-2 stalemate would force extra time and possibly penalties.
For NEC, the draw was a painful reminder of defensive frailties that also cost them in last week’s FUFA Super 8 final defeat to SC Villa. Nairobi United, meanwhile, will fancy their chances with home advantage after proving their resilience on the road.
The return leg in Nairobi promises to be a fierce battle, with the Confederation Cup dream of both sides hanging by a thread.
