Benson Omalla set to play key role in national team as Olunga’s status remains unclear ahead of Friday’s duel

Kenya’s star forward Benson Omalla is brimming with confidence as he gears up to deliver something special for Kenyans in the upcoming double-header of the 2025 African Cup of Nations Qualifiers against Zimbabwe and Namibia this month.

Harambee Stars captain Michael Olunga’s participation in these crucial fixtures is in doubt after he sustained an injury while playing for his Qatari club, Al Duhail.

Next man up

While the team’s medical staff continues to assess the condition of their dependable captain, Omalla, a prolific goal poacher, has expressed his readiness to step up and make a significant impact if called upon.

As he is set to celebrate his 23rd birthday next month, Omalla believes his time with the national team has been instrumental in his development, both at the club level and with Harambee Stars.

He credits captain Olunga as a source of inspiration and has learned valuable lessons from the seasoned striker.

“Every player must be ready at any given moment because anything can happen. If one player is unavailable for any reason, the others should be prepared to step in. I’ve been part of the system for some time now and have learned a lot. I’ve picked up important lessons from our captain (Olunga), and if given the chance, I believe I can contribute,” the striker told People Sport.

Now signed with Safa Sports Club in Lebanon, Omalla’s potential was evident from his early days as a student at Kisumu Day High School.

He has risen through the ranks to earn his place in the national team, with few doubting his capabilities.

The classy and dazzling forward has netted an impressive 45 goals in two seasons in the Football Kenya Federation Premier League.

Last season, Omalla became the first Gor Mahia player in ten years to win the golden boot award, scoring 19 goals.

Club heroes

The last Gor Mahia player to achieve this was Uganda’s Dan Sserenkuma, who netted 16 goals in 2014.

Last season, Omalla scored 26 goals but narrowly missed out on the top scorer’s award, finishing second to then-Police FC forward Elvis Rupia, who scored 27 goals.

Despite his stellar club form, Omalla is yet to make a significant impact on the international stage with Harambee Stars.

He has scored one goal for Kenya, which came during his competitive debut against Seychelles last November in a World Cup qualifier played in Abidjan, where the Stars thrashed the Pirates 5-0.

Since his debut, Omalla has featured in five matches for Kenya.

He was an unused substitute in the last senior Harambee Stars game against Ivory Coast in Lilongwe but made a brief appearance in a 1-1 draw against Burundi at the same venue, coming on for his then-teammate Austin Odhiambo.

“The team is in good shape; every player in the camp deserves to be here, and the coach has his reasons for including them. Preparations have been solid, with a few days of training under our belt.