The Harambee Stars striker has explained how starting on the bench gave him an edge that led to his late goal for Harambee Stars against Gambia.

Harambee Stars striker Ryan Ogam stood out as Kenya fell 3-1 to The Gambia in their World Cup qualifier at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.

After wasting several first-half chances, coach Benni McCarthy turned to his bench in the second half, bringing on Manzur Okwaro and Alpha Onyango before introducing Ryan Ogam, followed by Job Ochieng and Boniface Muchiri.

Ryan Ogam made his mark later on, netting a consolation goal in the 81st minute, but it was not enough as Harambee Stars bowed to the visitors.

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09:56 – 06.09.2025

Benni McCarthy opened up on his decision to delay bringing in Ryan Ogam, Manzur Okwaro, Boniface Muchiri and other CHAN 2024 standouts during Harambee Stars’ loss to Gambia.

The former Tusker FC striker revealed that while on the bench, he was observing how the Scorpions were playing and noticed some gaps in their defence.

As he was brought in, Ryan Ogam knew exactly what he needed to do, and he did not waste any chance as time was not on Harambee Stars’ side.

For Ryan Ogam, watching from the bench proved valuable as it helped him read the game, find the right positions, and ultimately finish with precision.

14:17 – 06.09.2025

Gambia winger Yankuba Minteh has given insights into what contributed to their big win against Harambee Stars in Nairobi on Friday.

“Before I scored that goal, I had analysed the defenders when I was on the bench, and I saw that they were leaving a lot of bigger spaces,” Ryan Ogam disclosed.

“Going into the match, I knew I was supposed to create that space for myself, and the good delivery helped me a lot. I appreciate the fans for their support. Our goal was to get the maximum points, but we now focus on Tuesday’s game.”

Ryan Ogam added that as they gear up for a clash against Seychelles, their main focus will be on getting the maximum points, especially after struggling against The Gambia.

12:29 – 06.09.2025

Gambia coach Johnathan McKinstry admits his knowledge of Kenyan players from his Gor Mahia days helped him conquer Harambee Stars.

Ogam pointed out that he hopes to find the back of the net again after his dominant exploits at the African Nations Championship (CHAN 2024).

Ryan Ogam scored twice in the matches against Morocco and Zambia, cementing his place as one of Kenya’s key strikers.

“It’s a great feeling, first of all, something that I am proud of, though the results have not been the best overall. It’s a great building block for me and for Tuesday’s game, I hope to score,” he added.

11:20 – 06.09.2025

The Harambee Stars defender admitted he did not know Yankuba Minteh before their World Cup qualifier clash, but their one-on-one duel turned into a memorable test.

Thanks to his impressive style of play at CHAN 2024, Ryan Ogam also sealed a move to Austrian side Wolfsberger.