Ryan Ogam, the FKF Premier League leading scorer, has set his sights on earning a spot in the Harambee Stars squad for the 2024 African Nations Championships (CHAN), which is set to take place next month. The Tusker FC striker, who has been in outstanding form this season, has already made his international debut, featuring for Kenya in their opening match of the Mapinduzi Cup, where they played to a 1-1 draw with Burkina Faso.
Ogam’s rise to prominence has been nothing short of impressive. The 20-year-old forward has netted 13 goals in 11 matches, placing him at the top of the Golden Boot race. His form has also helped Tusker FC remain tied with KCB at the top of the FKF Premier League standings. This stellar performance on the domestic front has bolstered Ogam’s confidence, fueling his ambition to represent Kenya in the upcoming CHAN tournament, which will be co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania from February 1 to 18, 2024.
The Mapinduzi Cup, a regional competition held in Zanzibar, has provided Ogam with an invaluable opportunity to showcase his talent on the international stage. Despite the draw with Burkina Faso, Ogam is determined to make the most of the tournament, hoping that strong performances will cement his place in the CHAN squad. He has expressed his desire to continue proving himself, both for his club and for the national team, emphasizing that it would be an honor to represent his country in such a prestigious competition.
Ogam’s confidence stems not only from his goal-scoring prowess but also from the hard work he has put in to reach this level. He is well aware that competition for places in the Harambee Stars squad is fierce, with several talented strikers vying for a spot. However, Ogam remains undeterred, focusing on what he can control: his performance on the field. He has made it clear that he is ready to give his best in every match and prove to the coaching staff that he deserves a place in the CHAN squad.
Harambee Stars head coach Francis Kimanzi has already indicated that players who demonstrate great character and perform well in the Mapinduzi Cup will be considered for the CHAN team. This is a golden opportunity for Ogam to stake his claim, and he will be hoping to impress in the remaining fixtures of the tournament. Kenya’s next match in the Mapinduzi Cup is against Kilimanjaro Stars, followed by a clash with the hosts, Zanzibar Heroes. Ogam will be eager to get on the scoresheet in these encounters, as a strong finish to the tournament could significantly boost his chances of making the CHAN squad.
For Ogam, making the CHAN squad would be the culmination of a dream season, where his domestic success has led to international recognition. It would also mark the beginning of what he hopes will be a long and successful international career. With his determination, skill, and a growing reputation as one of the top strikers in the league, Ogam is well-positioned to make a strong case for himself in the coming weeks. As the CHAN tournament approaches, all eyes will be on the Tusker FC forward to see if he can turn his impressive club form into success on the international stage.
