Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has hailed goalkeeper Bryne Omondi and striker Ryan Ogam for their decisive contributions at the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN). As Kenya gears up for a crucial quarter-final clash against Madagascar at Kasarani Stadium on Friday, McCarthy says the pair have embodied the spirit and resilience driving the team forward.
Why Is Byrne Omondi Key to Harambee Stars?
Speaking in Nairobi on Thursday, McCarthy praised Omondi as a late but vital addition to the squad.
“Byrne came in as a late addition to the squad. He has had his down moments, but if you want to come into a big tournament, you need presence, and he certainly has that. We worked a lot on his concentration and leadership, and now the team fully depends on him,” McCarthy said.
The coach acknowledged Omondi’s past struggles with individual errors but noted his remarkable improvement.
“Now you see the quality. He deserves the matches he has played, where he was phenomenal, and hopefully he continues to grow game by game,” McCarthy added.
How Has Ogam Inspired Kenya’s Attack?
On the attacking front, McCarthy placed his faith in 20-year-old Tusker forward Ryan Ogam, who has scored match-winning goals against both Zambia and two-time champions Morocco. Despite returning from a serious knee injury earlier this year, Ogam’s hunger and commitment have impressed the coach.
“Ryan was injured, but he still came to camp to show me his dedication. For me, that goes a long way—it tells you this is a player that will die for you when he’s fit. That loyalty stayed with me, and now he is repaying it with goals,” McCarthy explained.
McCarthy noted that every player in camp has been pushing hard in training, giving him what he called a “good problem” in squad selection. With strong morale and rising performances, he expects more special moments against Madagascar.
A win on Friday would secure Harambee Stars a historic first-ever semifinal at CHAN, where they would face the winner between Algeria and Sudan at Zanzibar’s Amaan Stadium.
By Yockshard Enyendi