Otieno keen to exploit big-stage experience as Tusker begin Confederation Cup campaign

Otieno previously served as the captain at Nairobi United, leading the ‘Naibois’ through a historic run that saw them become the first Kenyan club since 2018 to reach the tournament's group stage.

During that campaign, he featured heavily against continental powerhouses including Azam FC, Wydad AC, and Maniema Union before securing his transfer to Tusker FC.

Drawing from that wealth of experience, the defender emphasized the importance of approaching the first leg of preliminary clash with a tournament mindset.

Speaking ahead of the Al-Ahli’s showdown, Otieno underlined the importance of approaching the continental showpiece with a tournament mindset, treating every contest as a high-stakes, one-game-at-a-time affair.

“Going to CAF matches is just like a tournament. It's one match at a time. First, we are concentrating on this weekend's match against Al-Ahli. Playing away, the priority is getting maximum points and avoiding conceding. If we secure a positive result over the weekend, it gives us a strong push heading into the return leg at home,” Otieno stated.

The seasoned defender is no stranger to the demands of continental football. Having previously featured in CAF competitions with Kariobangi Sharks in 2018, Homeboyz, and Nairobi United, Otieno reached the lucrative group stage during his previous stint, though he remains hungry to clear past hurdles.

“This is my fourth attempt playing continental football. With Sharks in 2018, we exited in round two, and with Homeboyz, we went out in round one. With Nairobi, we managed to reach the group stage, but we couldn't pick up a single point.

"Now with Tusker, I want to achieve those same goals, but get something better, step up, secure maximum points in the group stage, and make the dream come true,” he added.

Otieno also highlighted that success on the continent serves as a springboard for individual player growth, noting that international fixtures attract scout attention from across the region.

Back on the domestic front, Otieno remains firmly focused on guiding Tusker to glory, balancing their continental ambitions with local league and cup targets.

“If the team achieves its target, it means you achieve more as an individual. We have a good group and a solid technical staff.

To win the league, you need maximum points, and to achieve your dreams, you start today. Whatever we do in training now will deliver success in the league and cup,” he concluded.

The Brewers seek to ‘sober up’ on Sunday September 6 as they begin their continental glory race in Rwanda, all eyes on them after having an impressive domestic run which was capped off with FKF Super crown.