Kenyan defender Baron Ochieng was named in Zamalek’s matchday squad for the clash against Al Masry but remained an unused substitute as the White Knights registered a convincing 3-0 victory in the Egyptian Premier League.
The highly-rated youngster, who signed a long-term deal with the Cairo giants earlier this year, has been waiting for his much-anticipated debut. Despite not getting minutes on the pitch, his inclusion in the team underlines the coaching staff’s intention to gradually integrate him into top-flight Egyptian football.
Zamalek’s goals came from Oday Dabbagh, who opened the scoring in the 30th minute, followed by a strike from Omar Gaber late in the second half. Abdallah El-Said then sealed the win with a stoppage-time penalty to cap off a dominant display. The result strengthened Zamalek’s strong start to the campaign, taking them to 13 points at the top of the table.
Head coach Yannick Ferrera opted for experience in defense, sticking with a back four that has been consistent in recent games. Mohamed Abdelghani commanded the central line, supported by Hossam Abdelmaguid and Ahmed Abou El-Fotouh, who have proven to be reliable in containing opposition threats.
For Ochieng, patience appears to be the strategy. The 20-year-old, who captained Kenya at the U20 Africa Cup of Nations, is considered one of East Africa’s most promising defensive prospects. Having come through the ranks at Kibera Black Stars before shining at Sofapaka, his growth will be closely monitored by both Harambee Stars fans and Zamalek supporters.
Ferrera has shown a cautious approach with young talents as the club undergoes a rebuilding phase after a challenging 2024–25 season. Rather than rushing Ochieng into the spotlight, the Belgian tactician is expected to introduce him gradually, possibly in less intense fixtures or upcoming CAF Confederation Cup matches where rotation will be necessary.
Zamalek’s defensive unit has been one of the best in the league so far, making it difficult for newcomers to break into the starting lineup. However, with a congested fixture schedule ahead, including a test against Ismaily on Thursday, opportunities are likely to come for fringe players like Ochieng, Ahmed Sherif, and Abdel Hamid Maali.
The Kenyan defender’s time will come, and when it does, he is expected to bring pace, agility, and youthful energy to a side aiming to reclaim dominance both domestically and on the continental stage
