Harambee Stars’ forward Ryan Ogam has expressed his desire to learn from the national team captain, Michael Olunga, after the duo played together for the first time under the tutelage of head coach Benni McCarthy on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.

After starting Ogam on the bench in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifier against the Gambia on Friday, September 5, 2025, at Kasarani Stadium, McCarthy gave Ogam a starting berth alongside Michael Olunga in another Group F World Cup Qualifier clash against Seychelles, a partnership that saw the pair score a brace apiece, to help Harambee Stars trash Seychelles 5-0 after the disappointing 3-1 defeat to Gambia last week.

Following the perfect chemistry between them, Ogam has stated that he is ready to learn under the shadow of Michael Olunga, who equalled his national team scoring record with former captain and Harambee Stars legend Dennis Oliech (34 goals) yesterday.

”I am eager to learn under his shadow; his positioning and finishing prowess are amazing. He is directing me well.” Ogam, who recently sealed his move to the Austrian league, said in his post-match reactions.

Ogam delivers again for Harambee Stars

Fresh from doing his exploits at the just concluded 2024 TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN 2024), Ryan Ogam gave Harambee Stars the lead in the 6th minute with a powerful header from Duke Abuya’s cross.

Moments later, defender Collins Sichenje doubled Benni McCarthy’s men’s advantage in the 34th minute with a composed strike following another Abuya delivery. Ogam then grabbed his second of the game in the 37th minute. Captain Michael Olunga capped off a dominant first half with a penalty in stoppage time to make it 4-0.

Olunga rounded up his brace against Seychelles in the 66th minute, finishing Rooney Onyango’s pass with ease. Although the Stars created further opportunities, Seychelles avoided more damage, and the match ended 5-0.

Although it has no significance in their 2026 FIFA World Cup Campaign, the victory lifted morale after last Friday’s 3-1 humiliation at the hands of Gambia. The particular defeat dented Harambee Stars’ hopes of playing at the World Cup, leaving Kenya with a steep climb in Group F. Head coach Benni McCarthy had warned his players against complacency, and they responded with energy, discipline, and attacking intent.