NAIROBI, Kenya — Ryan Wesley Ogam, the 20-year-old striker whose decisive goal against Morocco secured Kenya’s quarter-final spot in the African Nations Championship (CHAN), has etched his name into Kenyan football history.
Ogam’s journey has been one of rapid success, culminating in a career-defining moment on the national stage.
Born in Nairobi on December 21, 2004, Ogam began his youth career at local clubs like Galaxy FC, Sunrise FC, and UEFA Despanol.
He made his senior debut with Rainbow FC in the National Super League and later played for Elite Falcons FC in the UAE before returning to Kenya to join Tusker FC in 2024.
Initially signed as a defensive midfielder, Ogam’s transition to a striker proved to be a turning point, as he netted 15 goals in just 17 league appearances for Tusker during the 2024 FKF Premier League season.
His stellar club form earned him a call-up to the national team in January 2025, where he made his debut during the Mapinduzi Cup.
The winning goal against Morocco was Ogam’s first for the Harambee Stars and came during his CHAN tournament debut. National team head coach Benni McCarthy has praised Ogam’s talent, comparing him to Kenyan football legend Michael Olunga. “He is a natural finisher with great movement,” McCarthy noted during pre-tournament preparations.
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The match, played on Sunday at the Moi International Sports Centre in Kasarani, saw the Harambee Stars defy the odds to secure a 1-0 victory over two-time champions Morocco.
Ogam’s 42nd-minute strike was the sole goal, and the team defended the lead with remarkable resolve after Chrispine Erambo’s red card, upgraded by VAR, left them with ten men for the entire second half.
Goalkeeper Bryne Omondi made several crucial saves, ensuring the scoreline remained intact and paving the way for Kenya to advance to the knockout stage.
With this performance, Ogam’s pace, positioning, and eye for goal have positioned him as a player to watch as the Harambee Stars pursue continental glory.
