Kenya Triumphs Over Zambia With Ryan Ogam’s Decisive Goal

Kenya’s Harambee Stars surged past Zambia in a thrilling African Nations Championship (CHAN) Group A clash at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, on August 17, 2025. The passionate home crowd witnessed a historic performance as young striker Ryan Ogam netted the only goal of the contest, sealing Kenya’s unbeaten finish atop their group and sparking celebrations nationwide.

A Tense Battle at Kasarani

Both teams entered the match with much at stake: Kenya looked to confirm its position as group leaders and Zambia sought to salvage pride despite already being eliminated. The game opened at a frenetic pace, with both sides creating several chances but struggling to convert against resolute defensive lines and sharp goalkeeping.

Kenya dominated possession much of the match, probing the Zambian defense and driven forward by the energy of a raucous crowd of over 27,000. Even as chances came and went, Zambia’s goalkeeper Charles Kalumba was determined, making crucial saves to keep the game level.

Ogam Breaks the Deadlock

The breakthrough arrived in the 75th minute. Substitute Boniface Muchiri found space on the right, delivered a precise pass into the box, and Ryan Ogam—displaying remarkable composure for a 20-year-old—controlled and rifled a low shot past Kalumba. The stadium erupted as Kenya took the lead and sealed the three points. This goal was Ogam’s second of the tournament, adding to his growing reputation as Kenya’s new star striker.

“Striker Ryan Ogam, with calm composure, converted a precise pass from Boniface Muchiri before drilling a low finish past goalkeeper Charles Kalumba. The goal sealed Kenya’s top spot in the group and ensured a quarter-final tie at home against Madagascar,” reported post-match coverage.

Heroics in Defense and Final Whistle

After taking the lead, Kenya had to withstand pressure from Zambia searching for an equalizer. Harambee Stars goalkeeper Faruk Shikalo made a crucial late save against Kelvin Kampamba, preserving the clean sheet and helping Kenya to the important win.

As the final whistle blew, fans exploded in joy across the stadium and the nation. The victory means Kenya progresses to face Madagascar at home in the quarter-finals, carrying huge momentum and hope for a historic run on continental home soil.

The Rise of Ryan Ogam

Ryan Ogam’s rise has been meteoric. Formerly a defensive midfielder, his conversion to striker at Tusker FC has yielded dramatic results—netting 15 goals in 17 league appearances and delivering on the international stage with composure and skill. His decisive performances in CHAN 2024 have drawn praise and comparisons to Kenyan football legends, marking him as a player to watch as Kenya chases glory.

What’s Next for Harambee Stars?

Kenya’s CHAN campaign continues with a challenging but exciting quarter-final against Madagascar. The team remains unbeaten, united by the hope of lifting the trophy for the first time on home soil. With Ogam in peak form and the squad showing resilience, fans look forward to further historic moments in the tournament.

Kenya’s victory over Zambia—secured by a moment of magic from Ryan Ogam—will be remembered as a defining episode in the country’s sporting story, inspiring a new generation of football talent and supporters alike.