PuraVida Sports

By Tonny Sanya

Harambee Stars forward Ryan Wesley Ogam has officially entered the race for the Golden Boot at the TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship.

Ogam netted his second goal in as many matches, joining his teammate Austin Odhiambo and five other players at the top of the goal scorers’ chart, all tied on two goals each.

His latest strike came in the 75th minute to seal a 1-0 victory for Kenya over Zambia on Sunday. 

The left-footed forward had earlier found the net in the 42nd minute against Morocco, scoring in Harambee Stars’ historic group-stage win.

“After the injury, my mentality was to come back and play CHAN. I thank God for the opportunity and for the chance to score two crucial goals in the last match and this one. Hopefully, we can build on this in the next stage,” Ogam said.

The in-form striker was also named Man of the Match against Zambia for his decisive performance. 

He now joins six other contenders for the Golden Boot, including:

• Abdelrazig Omer (Sudan): Known for his blistering pace and sharp instincts;
• Thabiso Kutumela (South Africa): A composed finisher keeping Bafana Bafana in contention.
• Austin Odhiambo (Kenya): A fan favorite, admired for his creativity, ball control, and crucial goals.
• Allan Okello (Uganda): A flair-filled playmaker keeping the Cranes’ hopes alive.
• Clement Mzize (Tanzania): Consistent and reliable, a standout for Taifa Stars.
• Joao China ndo Manha “Kaporal” (Angola): A powerful striker who struck against Zambia, though Angola’s group stage exit hampers his chances.

With Groups A and B already concluded—Kenya and Morocco advancing from Group A, and Tanzania alongside Madagascar from Group B—the spotlight now shifts to Group C, whose final matches are set for tonight.

As the knockout stages approach, the race for the CHAN 2024 Golden Boot remains wide open.