Kenya’s debut at the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) may have ended in the quarter-finals, but two Harambee Stars players left a lasting mark on the competition. Midfielder Austin Odhiambo and striker Ryan Ogam both scored twice, finishing as Kenya’s joint-top scorers and earning a spot among the continent’s standout attackers.
Odhiambo’s performance was particularly significant. The Gor Mahia playmaker was at the heart of Kenya’s attacking play, scoring crucial goals that underlined his growing reputation. His omission from the national team squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers has sparked debate, with many fans questioning why one of the country’s most in-form players has been left out. Despite this, his CHAN displays confirmed his ability to compete with Africa’s finest.
Alongside him, Ogam proved equally clinical. The young forward netted twice, showcasing his poise in front of goal and furthering his reputation as one of Kenya’s brightest prospects. His displays have already attracted transfer interest from European clubs, marking CHAN 2024 as a turning point in his career.
At the top of the Golden Boot race, Morocco’s Oussama Lamlioui stands out as the clear leader. The RS Berkane striker has scored four goals, including decisive strikes in three consecutive matches and a vital effort in the semi-final. His consistency has powered Morocco into the final and positioned him as the frontrunner to claim the tournament’s top scorer award.
Chasing him are South Africa’s Thabiso Kutumela, Uganda’s Allan Okello, and Algeria’s Soufiane Bayazid, all with three goals. However, their nations have been eliminated, leaving Lamlioui with a strong advantage ahead of the final clash with Madagascar.
Other notable names on two goals include Madagascar’s Lalaina Rafanomezantsoa and Toky Rakotondraibe, DR Congo’s Jephte Kitambala, Morocco’s Mohamed Hrimat and Sabir Bougrine, Angola’s Kaporal, and Tanzania’s Clement Mzize. They join Odhiambo and Ogam in a crowded bracket of forwards who left their mark despite not reaching the final.
While the Golden Boot appears destined for Lamlioui, Kenya’s Odhiambo and Ogam can take pride in their performances. Their impact at CHAN 2024 showed that Kenya is capable of producing talent that can match the continent’s best, a promising sign ahead of AFCON 2027 and future international tournaments.
