Harambee Stars and Tusker FC forward Ryan Ogam has praised Gor Mahia midfielder Austin Odhiambo for his exceptional qualities, emphasizing how enriching it is to play alongside him. Ryan considers Odhiambo the best player he has ever shared the pitch with, as they proudly represented the Kenya national football team together.
Ogam’s rise to the national team began in October 2024, when then-head coach Engin Firat recognized his potential and handed him his first call-up for Kenya’s return leg against South Sudan in the 2025 Africa Nations Championship (CHAN) qualifiers. It was during the 2025 Mapinduzi Cup in Zanzibar, under former interim coach Francis Kimanzi, that Ogam truly made his mark in the national team setup.
The prolific Tusker FC forward made an immediate impact in the tournament, scoring his debut goal for Harambee Stars in Kenya’s 2-0 victory over Tanzania’s Kilimanjaro Stars. Although the Stars faced elimination in the group stages, this tournament, designed as preparation for CHAN 2024, provided Ogam with the invaluable opportunity to showcase his talent. The competition was later postponed from February to August.
In a recent interview on the Crafting Stars podcast, Ogam expressed his admiration for Odhiambo, describing him as the most intelligent player he has ever played alongside. “Austin, when we played for the national team,” Ogam reflected, “is a very intelligent player. His understanding of the game makes him the best to play with. He is always aware.”
“As long as he lifts his head up and spots you, all you have to do is make the run, and he will find you,” he inspiredly added.
Both Ogam and Odhiambo have been shining brightly for their respective clubs. Ogam leads the FKF Premier League goal-scoring charts with 15 goals, while Odhiambo has emerged as a pivotal figure for Gor Mahia, topping their scoring charts with six goals.
Their impressive performances are not just remarkable; they are crucial in securing their places in the national team under the visionary leadership of newly appointed coach Benni McCarthy.
With important 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers set for March and the rescheduled CHAN tournament in August—co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania—this dynamic duo is poised to create a significant impact on the international stage.
Article by Pulse Sports Kenya