Salim Ali chuffed with Naibois win over KCB after slump

The experienced coach also voiced confidence that the club’s new signings will play a crucial role as they navigate a demanding schedule across multiple competitions.

The win ended a two-match winless run for the side popularly known as Naibois, who had previously suffered a 2–0 defeat to AFC Leopards before settling for a 1–1 draw against Ulinzi Stars.

Speaking to Citizen Digital after the match, Salim Ali said the victory would serve as a major morale boost for his players, who have been grappling with fatigue due to a congested fixture list.

“We are dealing with fatigue, so our strategy today was to sit deep and use counter-attacks. I’m happy that the plan worked and that we won comfortably,” said Salim.

The former Mathare United coach also highlighted the importance of keeping a clean sheet, something the team had struggled with in recent matches.

“This win will ease the pressure that was on our shoulders. It’s a massive result—not only because we won, but also because we kept a clean sheet. It’s been a long time since we last managed one.”

Salim praised his players for executing the tactical plan effectively, particularly in neutralising KCB’s aerial threat, and turned his focus to their upcoming fixture against defending champions Kenya Police.

“We had some challenges defending long balls, but my boys read the game very fast and managed to prevent the opponent from using that strength against us. We came under pressure on several occasions, but I’m pleased that we dealt with those threats effectively,” he added.

“On Monday, we face the Police, and we hope to continue winning and keeping clean sheets. Our goal is to keep winning our games in hand and see where that takes us at the end of the season.”

Nairobi United are enduring a demanding campaign, competing on several fronts. In the league, they are pushing for a top-five finish in their debut season in the top flight, while also featuring in the CAF Confederation Cup group stages.

In addition, the club is set to participate in the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Cup, where they are the defending champions after edging Gor Mahia 2–1 in last season’s final.

Salim, who took over interim coaching duties following the departure of Nicholas Muyoti, admitted that fixture congestion had begun to take its toll on the squad. He added that, in a bid to ease the burden on the players, the club moved into the transfer market to reinforce the team and allow some players much-needed rest.

The Naibois have strengthened their squad with four new additions. Attacking midfielder John Njuguna joined the club as a free agent from Tusker FC, bringing experience and creativity to the midfield.

They have also signed Roy Okal from Sofapaka FC, Rwandan left winger Hakizimana Muhadjiri from Uganda’s NEC FC, and Ugandan left-back Mustafa Kizza, who adds depth and international experience to the defence.

The latest arrival is versatile attacker Charles Waibi, also from NEC FC of Uganda. Waibi is expected to add depth and attacking firepower ahead of Nairobi United’s upcoming CAF Confederation Cup fixture later this month.

After 14 rounds of league matches, Nairobi United sit seventh on the table with 23 points, although they have two games in hand.

Gor Mahia lead the standings with 30 points from 15 matches, level on points with joint leaders AFC Leopards. However, Gor Mahia top the table on goal difference and also have a game in hand.