Mogadishu City FC Lights Up Nairobi in Historic CAF Champions League Showdown

Somalia’s reigning football champions, Mogadishu City FC, made a memorable appearance in the CAF Champions League, bringing flair, passion, and pride to the region despite narrowly missing out on progression to the next round. The team, guided and supported by Africa’s premier sports management firm Salient Sports Management, arrived in Nairobi on September 12, 2025, ready to take on Kenya’s Police FC in a high-stakes continental fixture.

This campaign was more than just a football match—it was a milestone for Somali football. Due to the lack of a FIFA and CAF-certified stadium in Somalia, Mogadishu City FC was compelled to host their “home” leg in Nairobi, turning the Kenyan capital into a temporary fortress.

A Journey Backed by Expertise

From the moment the team landed at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, Salient Sports Management was on hand to ensure a seamless experience. The firm took charge of all critical logistics—from visa processing, hotel bookings, and transport coordination to training ground access, security, and hospitality services. Their world-class approach to team management created a professional environment that allowed the players and coaching staff to focus entirely on the task ahead.

“Mogadishu City FC may have been away from home, but with Salient Sports Management, they had everything they needed to perform at their best,” said a club official. “The team felt supported at every step.”

The First Leg: A Tough Start

The first leg, hosted at Nyayo National Stadium on September 20, saw Mogadishu City FC take on a confident Police FC. Despite a valiant effort, the Somali side went down 3-1, with Police capitalising on quick counter-attacks and set-piece opportunities.

It was a frustrating result for Mogadishu City FC, who showed flashes of brilliance and controlled large spells of the game. The goal scored gave them hope—and it would prove crucial in the second leg.

The Fightback:

Almost a Dream Come True

Eight days later, on September 28, the return leg was held at Kasarani Stadium, again under the meticulous management of Salient Sports. What followed was a gutsy, inspired performance by Mogadishu City FC, who stunned the Kenyan giants with a 2-0 victory, levelling the tie at 3-3 on aggregate.

With both teams deadlocked, it came down to away goals. Police FC progressed, having scored three in the first leg compared to Mogadishu City’s single away goal. The heartbreak was real—but so was the pride.

Salient Sports Delivers a World-Class Experience

Despite the narrow exit, this campaign was a landmark moment for Somali football. Mogadishu City FC showcased resilience, skill, and class on the continental stage. Much of the credit also goes to Salient Sports Management, whose behind-the-scenes work ensured the team was always in optimal condition—both mentally and physically.

“We are extremely proud to have been entrusted with the responsibility of supporting Mogadishu City FC during this historic CAF Champions League campaign,” said a spokesperson for Salient Sports Management. “From the logistics to the matchday experience, we aimed to deliver nothing short of excellence—and we believe we did.”

A Foundation for the Future

Though the result didn’t favour them in the end, Mogadishu City FC’s fighting spirit, organisation, and talent have left an indelible mark. With continued investment in infrastructure and partnerships with elite management companies like Salient Sports, the future of Somali football is brighter than ever.

As the team returns home, they do so with heads held high and hearts full of pride. Their story in Nairobi has inspired countless fans—and reminded Africa that Somali football is rising.

Salient Sports Management congratulates Mogadishu City FC on a brave and dignified campaign and remains committed to supporting African clubs in achieving their full potential on the global stage.