Kenya secured a vital 1-0 victory over Zambia in their CHAN 2024 Group A clash at Kasarani Stadium, with Ryan Ogam delivering the decisive moment and earning the Man of the Match award.
The Harambee Stars struggled for long periods to break down a disciplined Zambian side, but Ogam struck in the 75th minute to settle the contest.
Latching onto a precise pass, the striker kept his composure under pressure and guided the ball past the goalkeeper, sealing a result that could prove pivotal in Kenya’s group-stage campaign.
The goal underlined Ogam’s growing influence within the national team.
His sharp instincts in the final third and ability to deliver in high-pressure moments have made him a player Kenya can rely on.
In a match where both sides found chances hard to come by, his clinical finishing provided the breakthrough that separated the teams.
Zambia, despite showing resilience for much of the encounter, were unable to mount an effective response in the closing stages.
Their lack of attacking edge meant Kenya’s defensive organisation was rarely unsettled after taking the lead.
The defeat leaves Zambia with work to do if they are to progress from a competitive group.
At the final whistle, Ogam was deservedly named Man of the Match, recognition of his decisive role.
His contribution highlighted not only his ability to score at crucial moments but also his importance as a leader in attack.
Ryan Ogam was able to respond at the right time, allowing Kenya to continue its positive momentum in this tournament, the post-match summary noted, capturing the sense of his influence on the outcome.
For Kenya, the result is more than just three points. It is a demonstration of their growing maturity and capacity to manage tight contests in major competitions.
The team showed patience, discipline and resilience before striking decisively when the opportunity arose.
The victory strengthens the Harambee Stars’ position in Group A and injects fresh confidence as they look ahead to the remaining fixtures.
Ogam’s performance, meanwhile, has confirmed his status as one of the standout figures of the group stage.
His winning strike at Kasarani Stadium will be remembered as a defining moment of Kenya’s early CHAN 2024 journey, one that showcased both his individual brilliance and his team’s determination to succeed.