Harambee Stars forwards Job Ochieng and Ryan Ogam experienced contrasting fortunes over the weekend as they continued preparations for upcoming national team duties.
Job Ochieng had a memorable outing for Real Sociedad B in Spain’s La Liga 2 after scoring and helping his side to a crucial 2-1 victory over Leganes at the Campo Jose Luis Orbegozo Stadium. The winger opened the scoring in the 18th minute after combining well with teammate Gorka Carrera Zarranz. His early goal gave Sociedad the momentum they needed, although their opponents equalized through Amadou Diawara in the 40th minute.
The game appeared destined for a draw until Dani Díaz struck deep into stoppage time to hand Real Sociedad B all three points. The win lifted the Spanish outfit to 16th place on the table, with 15 points from 13 matches. It was a welcome result for the team, which has struggled for consistency this season.
Ochieng, however, was substituted in the 75th minute after picking up a minor knock. The forward will hope to recover quickly as he prepares to link up with the Harambee Stars squad for friendly matches against Equatorial Guinea and Senegal later this month. His recent form—featuring two goals and two assists in 10 appearances—will be a boost for the national team as they continue to build a competitive squad ahead of World Cup qualification fixtures.
In contrast, Ryan Ogam’s weekend was one to forget. The Kenyan forward was once again left out of the matchday squad as his Austrian side Wolfsberger AC suffered a 2-1 home defeat to Hertberg in the Austrian Bundesliga. It marked the second consecutive match he failed to make the squad and the fourth straight league game he has missed out on.
Ogam, who joined the club earlier this season, has featured in only two league matches so far. His limited game time will be a concern for both his club and national team, especially with crucial fixtures approaching.
As Ochieng’s star continues to rise in Spain, Ogam faces a battle to regain his place and form in Austria. Their differing experiences underscore the unpredictable nature of football, where fortunes can change from one week to the next.
