Tusker striker Ryan Ogam was the hero on Sunday after netting the decisive goal that fired Harambee Stars past Zambia and secured top spot in Group A at the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN).
Kenya’s 1-0 triumph at Kasarani means they will face Madagascar in the quarter-final on August 22, avoiding an all-East African showdown with neighbours Tanzania, who now clash with Morocco in Dar es Salaam.
Kenya Control but Struggle to Break Zambia
With qualification already assured, coach Benni McCarthy’s men sought victory to seal first place. They dominated possession in the first half, but Zambia’s disciplined backline proved hard to break down.
Marvin Nabwire signaled Kenya’s intent early with a long-range effort, while defender Michael Kibwage spared Kenya’s blushes when he cleared off the line after a dangerous Zambian corner.
Farouk Shikalo, starting in goal for the first time in the tournament, endured a nervy moment when nearly dispossessed in his own box but recovered as Stars countered through Austin Odhiambo, who forced a fine save from Zambia goalkeeper Charles Kalumba with a thunderous freekick.
Despite lively wing play from Ben Stanley Omondi, Kenya’s final ball let them down, and the teams went into the break level.
Zambia Threaten, Stars Respond
Zambia came out strong after halftime, with Prince Mumba flashing a shot just wide before Onyango tested Kalumba at the other end.
Sensing the need for more sharpness, McCarthy introduced Juma Choka and Boniface Muchiri, changes that injected pace and intensity. Choka, however, squandered a free header, while Muchiri’s rebound effort struck the side netting during a goalmouth scramble.
Ogam’s Defining Moment
The breakthrough finally came in the 75th minute. Veteran full-back Abud Omar linked up superbly before sliding the ball to Ogam, who showed predatory instincts to slot low past Kalumba. The Kasarani crowd erupted as the striker wheeled away in celebration.
Zambia nearly hit back immediately through captain Kelvin Kampamba, but Shikalo produced a fingertip save to preserve the lead.
McCarthy shored up his defense with the introductions of Manzur Okwaro and Felix Oluoch, and Kenya held firm to claim all three points.
Reaction from the Camp
Head coach Benni McCarthy hailed his players for keeping their composure and delivering under pressure.
“I’m proud of the boys. They showed great patience and resilience. Zambia pushed us hard, but we kept believing in our structure, and when the chance came, Ryan did what good strikers do,” McCarthy told reporters after the match.
“Now we must recover quickly and focus on Madagascar. There are no easy games at this stage, but finishing top of the group gives us momentum.”
Match-winner Ryan Ogam was equally delighted with his decisive contribution.
“It feels amazing to score for Kenya in such an important game. As a striker, you live for these moments. The team worked so hard to create the opportunity, and I’m glad I could finish it off,” Ogam said.
“We respect Madagascar, but we believe in ourselves. The fans were incredible tonight, and we want to keep making them proud.”
Quarter-Final Picture
The victory saw Harambee Stars finish with 10 points, one ahead of Morocco—who beat DR Congo 3-1. As a result, Kenya will stay in Nairobi to play Madagascar, while Morocco head to Dar es Salaam for a clash with Tanzania.
For Kenya, the mission is clear: carry the momentum of Ogam’s winner into the knockout stages and continue their pursuit of CHAN glory.
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