United, who are participating in the competition for the first time, endured a second straight loss as DR Congo’s AS Maniema narrowly won a closely contested match 1-0 at Kasarani Stadium to remain tied at the top of Group B.

Despite controlling the first half, substitute Jaency Mboma Kinda netted the decisive goal in the 66th minute. Mboma sneaked in near the post to finish a low cross from Chadoma Ozome.

Before the goal, chances were limited. Maniema’s dominance increased after halftime following a double substitution in the 46th minute that brought on Obed Mbala and Sylva Tshitenge to add more drive in midfield and on the right flank.

Nairobi reacted with three substitutions in the 69th minute, but the Congolese team expertly managed the final moments. Nairobi’s best period came late, yet Kevin Otiende’s yellow card in the 71st minute reflected their frustration as the visitors slowed the pace and protected their lead.

‘We handed our opponents an opening’

After the match, the former Mathare United coach lamented United’s missed chances, especially in the first half, and promised a stronger performance when they meet Tanzania’s Azam FC in their third group match in Nairobi.

“Losing this way is very disappointing, particularly in front of our fans in a game we dominated early on. We lacked focus, and the key in such tournaments is that you don’t need multiple goals; just one can change everything,” Ali commented after the match.

“We gave our opponents a chance, and now they have six points, leading us, but we still have four games remaining. We lost the first away game, but I’m not too concerned about our position because we created plenty of opportunities.

“Comparing the away match against Wydad to this one against Maniema, we showed flair. Sometimes playing away lessens pressure, but playing at home brings the expectation to perform, and I accept that for the team.”

Reflecting on the missed chances, Ali stated: “We instructed the players to convert their chances, but the second half was tougher because Maniema, with their experience at this level, controlled the game well and wasted time tactically.

“We didn’t create as many chances in the second half as in the first, and when you have chances early, you must score. In the second half, rushing led to loss of concentration, which allowed them to score.”

Ali added: “We have now suffered back-to-back losses, but considering the team’s youth in this competition, they have achieved a lot. The crucial match is against Azam here in Nairobi on the 25th, which I expect to be a different challenge.

“Our goal is to secure that win; if we beat Azam and then perform better away, we can improve our standing.

The defeat leaves United at the bottom of Group B with zero points, while their next opponents sit just above them also without points. Wydad AC leads the group with six points, tied with second-placed AS Maniema.