Sylvester Owino reflects on the highs and lows of his CHAN journey
By Luke Oluoch, August 20, 2025Harambee Stars center back Sylvester Owino, affectionately known as Silisili to Kenyan fans, has shared his experiences from the ongoing African Nations Championship.
The Gor Mahia defender has emerged as the fan favourite for his impressive performances in the Stars’ rear guard.
In an interview with a local radio station on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, Owino discloses that his best moment in the tournament so far is a crucial goal clearance he made against Angola as Kenya battled to a 1-1 draw.
“The clearance I made against Angola was my best moment so far,” he stated. However, Owino also revealed that his lowest point in the tournament came during the same match against Angola. Kenya had been forced to play with a man down for extended periods, and Owino thought the team had conceded a late goal in added time.
“Conceding that late almost killed me,” he revealed.
Fortunately, the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) intervened, and the goal was correctly ruled out for offside, saving Benni McCarthy’s side from a potentially disastrous outcome.
Life before football
On a revealing note, Owino shared a glimpse into his life before he rose to football stardom.
“I had my first job at a construction site for a while,” he recalled. “I used to be paid 400 shillings per day then.”
Following his exploits against Angola, Gor Mahia FC singled out defender Sylvester Owino for praise for his role in marshalling the Harambee Stars’ defence
Owino was not only instrumental in the defensive responsibilities but also pivotal on the offensive front, coming close to scoring a second-half winner from a set-piece situation.
Pillar!
“SOLID. Sylvester Owino is one of the pillars at the back for Harambee Stars… the center-back is doing well. Keep going ja, Jatugo,”the club lauded the defender on Friday, August 8, 2025.
His acknowledgement followed moments after the team had equally extolled Omija for his brilliant display against the COSAFA-based side.
“Alphonce Omija is delivering as expected for Harambee Stars… boy is performing well at the back. Thumps up, Omija,” Gor said.
Heading into the knockout stages, Owino will be among the stars looked upon to continue the defensive fortress as Benni McCarthy’s charges welcome Madagascar on Friday, August 22, 2025, at the Moi Sports Centre Kasarani.