Michael Olunga, captain of the Harambee Stars, took a significant step toward becoming Kenya’s all-time leading goal scorer by netting a consolation goal during the team’s 4-1 defeat to Cameroon. The loss came during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers, leaving fans disappointed, yet Olunga’s performance offered a glimmer of positivity amid the gloom.
The striker’s goal in the match raised his tally to 30 goals from 61 appearances for the national team. With this achievement, Olunga is now just five goals away from equaling the record of Elijah Lidonde, and six from surpassing William Ouma’s mark, setting himself up to become Kenya’s undisputed top scorer.
This milestone serves as an encouraging personal achievement despite the collective frustration over the team’s performance, and Olunga is well-positioned to cement his legacy in Kenyan football history.
A Tough Night Against Cameroon
Kenya’s match against Cameroon was challenging from the outset. The Indomitable Lions opened the scoring early, with Vincent Aboubakar converting a penalty in the eighth minute. Cameroon doubled their lead through Martin Hongla in the 39th minute, establishing firm control over the game. However, Olunga responded two minutes later with a smart finish to reduce the deficit, temporarily offering Kenya hope.
Unfortunately for the Harambee Stars, Bryan Mbeumo scored just before halftime to restore Cameroon’s two-goal cushion. Christian Bassogog’s goal in the 55th minute sealed the result, putting Cameroon top of Group J with seven points.
While Kenya’s performance highlighted the challenges they face in qualifying for AFCON, Olunga’s ability to find the net, even in difficult circumstances, reinforced his importance to the team.
Olunga’s Steady March Toward Greatness
With his latest goal, Olunga inches closer to surpassing some of Kenya’s football legends. He is currently fourth on the all-time top scorers list, just three goals shy of equaling the legendary Elijah Lidonde, who scored 33 goals between 1950 and 1961. Lidonde’s impressive tally came in only 26 matches, a testament to his prowess, but Olunga now has the opportunity to join or surpass that mark within a few more games.
If Olunga manages to equal or surpass Lidonde’s total, the next name on the list will be Dennis Oliech. Oliech, a former national team captain, netted 34 goals over the course of his 76-match international career between 2002 and 2015. Oliech’s record stood as a benchmark for years, but with Olunga closing in fast, it appears that history may soon be rewritten.
Ultimately, Olunga’s ultimate target will be to surpass the tally set by William Ouma, Kenya’s all-time leading goal scorer. Ouma, who represented the Harambee Stars between 1965 and 1977, netted 35 goals in 66 matches. With six more goals, Olunga will not only tie the record but become the outright top scorer in Kenyan football history.
Olunga’s Rise to Stardom
Olunga’s journey to becoming a household name in Kenyan football has been remarkable. Known for his versatility, strength, and clinical finishing, the forward has consistently demonstrated his ability to score goals both domestically and internationally. After beginning his career with Kenyan club Gor Mahia, Olunga’s talent earned him opportunities abroad, including stints in Sweden, China, Japan, and Qatar.
At each step of his journey, Olunga has continued to evolve as a player. His height and physicality make him a constant threat in the air, while his composure in front of goal allows him to take advantage of scoring opportunities. These qualities have made him the focal point of Kenya’s attack for several years, with teammates relying on his experience and leadership on and off the pitch.
Favorable Conditions for Breaking the Record
At just 30 years old, Olunga still has time on his side. In modern football, strikers often maintain peak performance well into their early 30s, and Olunga’s experience ensures he remains Kenya’s first-choice forward. With several qualifiers and potential tournament matches ahead, the opportunity to surpass Ouma’s record is within reach.
Another factor working in Olunga’s favor is the absence of intense competition from other goal scorers within the national team. While Kenya has a few talented young players, none are currently poised to challenge Olunga’s position as the main source of goals. This gives him the freedom to focus on his performances without the pressure of rival strikers competing for his spot.
Furthermore, Kenya’s qualification campaign for AFCON 2025 provides several upcoming fixtures, giving Olunga multiple chances to add to his tally. With matches remaining in Group J, including games against weaker opposition, Olunga will likely have ample opportunities to score.
A Leader On and Off the Pitch
Olunga’s leadership extends beyond his goal-scoring abilities. As the captain of the national team, he plays a crucial role in motivating younger players and fostering a sense of unity within the squad. His calm demeanor and professional approach have earned him the respect of his teammates, who look up to him for guidance in difficult moments.
Despite the challenges Kenya faces, Olunga remains committed to helping the team improve. His dedication to the national cause, even when results have been disappointing, highlights his passion for representing his country. As the team rebuilds and strives for better performances, Olunga’s presence will be essential in maintaining morale and inspiring future generations of players.
The Bigger Picture: Rebuilding Kenyan Football
While Olunga’s goal-scoring exploits offer a silver lining, Kenya’s struggles on the field point to deeper issues that need addressing. The heavy defeat to Cameroon exposed gaps in the team’s tactical approach, prompting questions about the strategies employed by head coach Engin Firat. Former coaches and analysts have expressed concerns about the direction the national team is taking, calling for a more cohesive plan to develop young talent and improve team chemistry.
Beyond the technical aspects, Kenyan football continues to grapple with structural challenges, including inadequate funding and infighting among administrators. These issues have hindered the growth of the sport in the country and contributed to inconsistent performances at the international level. However, the emergence of players like Olunga offers hope that Kenya can turn things around with the right investments and long-term vision.
Chasing History While Inspiring a Generation
Olunga’s pursuit of the all-time scoring record is not just a personal milestone but a source of inspiration for aspiring footballers across Kenya. His journey from local leagues to the international stage serves as a reminder that hard work, talent, and perseverance can open doors to success.
As Olunga edges closer to breaking the record, the focus will undoubtedly shift to how Kenya can leverage his achievements to inspire future stars. Football academies across the country could use his story as a case study to motivate young players, encouraging them to dream big and work toward similar success.
For Olunga, surpassing Ouma’s record would be the culmination of years of dedication and sacrifice. However, he remains focused on contributing to the team’s success, knowing that individual accolades are secondary to the collective goal of taking Kenyan football to greater heights.
The Road Ahead
With Olunga on the brink of history, the upcoming months will be critical for both the striker and the national team. Kenya’s remaining AFCON qualifiers will provide him with opportunities to close in on the record, and should the team qualify, the tournament itself could offer the perfect stage for Olunga to cement his legacy.
Regardless of how the season unfolds, one thing is clear: Olunga’s journey is far from over. As he continues to lead the Harambee Stars, his name will remain synonymous with the golden era of Kenyan football. Whether he surpasses the record in the next few matches or further down the line, his contribution to the national team will be remembered for years to come.
In the meantime, Kenyan fans will be eagerly following Olunga’s progress, hoping to celebrate his achievements and witness a new chapter in the country’s footballing history. As the countdown to history begins, Olunga stands as a beacon of hope for Kenyan football, inspiring players and fans alike to believe in the power of determination and the pursuit of greatness.
