‘He Motivates Me’ -Rising Stars Forward Lawrence Okoth Dedicates Kenya's First-Ever AFCON U20 Goal to Michael Olunga

‘He Motivates Me’ -Rising Stars Forward Lawrence Okoth Dedicates Kenya's First-Ever AFCON U20 Goal to Michael Olunga

Mark Kinyanjui 14:45 - 04.05.2025

Rising Stars forward Lawrence Okoth, who has been dubbed the new Michael Olunga due to their similar playing styles, has dedicated his maiden AFCON U20 goal to the Harambee Stars captain.

Rising Stars forward Lawrence Okoth has waxed lyrical of the impact Michael Olunga has had in his career shortly after he netted Kenya’s first ever goal at the U20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) stage.

Beja, who plays for Olunga’s club MOFA in the National Super League, opened the scoring during their opening 3-2 defeat at the hands of Morocco, a match that was one rollercoaster, with the North African outfit twice forced to claw their way back before sealing the win late in the second half.

Okoth’s early header, powered in from a pinpoint Kevin Wangaya free-kick, gave Kenya a dream start in their tournament debut.

PAY ATTENTION: Follow us on Google News, Stay informed with Latest Sport News

Speaking ahead of their second clash against Tunisia, Okoth explained what it meant to have scored his first goal for the country.

“I thank God for giving me the strength to score my first AFCON goal . I feel good because it is my job to help the team score,” Okoth said.

While Kenya couldn't hold on for the win—conceding a late goal after earlier strikes by Yassir Zabiri and Reda Laalaoui for Morocco—Okoth remains upbeat about his chances in the tournament.

“It gives me confidence to compete for the golden boot, and having one goal is a good way to start.”

Lawrence Okoth: I want to play in the top 5 European leagues

“It is my first experience at the AFCON. We already played in CECAFA, but this stage is different and I want to score many goals.

“I want to play for one of the best teams in the top five European Leagues if I ever leave MOFA.”

Michael Olunga’s impact in his career

Okoth, who dons the number 14 shirt, has earned comparisons to Olunga because of his style of play, frame and clinical nature in front of goal.

Asked how the Harambee Stars captain has inspired him, Okoth explained Olunga’s big brother role in his development through crucial pieces of advice.

“He is a big inspiration to me. That is why I wear the number 14 shirt for the team in his honour. He has not spoken to me yet during the tournament, but any time we meet, he always encourages me, and he motivates me alot.”

As the Rising Stars prepare for a do-or-die clash against Tunisia, Okoth’s hunger for goals and his Olunga-inspired mentality may yet prove decisive in keeping Kenya’s AFCON dream alive.

Tags: