CAF Mandates Closed-Door Match for Nairobi United vs. Étoile du Sahel Due to Venue Crisis
NAIROBI – The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has issued a directive that the CAF Confederation Cup second preliminary round match between debutants Nairobi United and Tunisian giants Étoile Sportive du Sahel must be played behind closed doors.
The strict measure comes after the fixture was relocated to the Ulinzi Sports Complex, the third venue attempted in a week, due to the unavailability of major stadiums in Nairobi. Both the Nyayo National Stadium and the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, were prioritized for national memorial services.
In a statement, Nairobi United confirmed the ruling: “Following directives from CAF and the exceptional logistical circumstances, the match at Ulinzi Sports Complex will be strictly played behind closed doors.” The club outlined a restricted entry list limited to players, essential technical staff, match officials, a handful of club executives, and accredited media.
The closed-door ruling eliminates Nairobi United’s biggest advantage—a packed home crowd—as they face a formidable opponent. The Kenyan side, which qualified for the continental stage after winning the domestic cup, must now find a result against the multi-title-winning Tunisians in a sterile, silent environment. The match is scheduled for Sunday, October 19.
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