Ovella Ochieng: How Nairobi United Forward Forced His Way Into Benni McCarthy’s Harambee Stars Squad

Nairobi United star Ovella Ochieng was among players who returned to the Harambee Stars squad but how did he force his way into Benni McCarthy’s plans?

Nairobi United forward Ovella Ochieng was among a host of players who made their return to the Harambee Stars squad ahead of friendly matches against Madagascar and Comoros next month.

Ochieng joined Jonah Ayunga, Brian Opondo and Baron Ochieng as the returning players to the squad while Aldrine Kibet earned his maiden call-up.

However, for Ochieng, it is a delightful moment where he has seen his stock rise in recent weeks. The Nairobi United ace has just seen his club make history by qualifying for the CAF Confederation Cup group stages after edging out Tunisian giants Etoile du Sahel.

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The former Kariobangi Sharks man scored the first of two goals as they stunned Sahel in the first leg of their second preliminary round CAF Confederation Cup tie at Ulinzi Sports Complex, giving them a massive 2-0 advantage ahead of the second leg, which they lost by a similar margin but won on post-match penalties.

Impressive Performances at Club Level

Ochieng, who made his debut for Harambee Stars in 2016 while still a 17-year-old, had also scored the winning goal in Nairobi United’s first FKF Premier League game as they beat Mara Sugar 1-0.

His performances have not just been about scoring but he is also creating opportunities and adding a different dynamic to the attack.

That form has seen him catch the eye of Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy who included him to the squad for the November friendlies.

Ochieng joined Naibois after a stint with AFC Leopards although injuries hampered him in his final season at Ingwe but he is back healthy and showing his real qualities.

Nairobi United Forward Has Plenty of Experience

“Benni is an incredible coach. He was no longer at AmaZulu when I was with Richards Bay in South Africa, but he did leave a solid team and I believe Harambee Stars are capable of becoming solid as well,” Ochieng told Pulse Sports last week.

At just 25, Ochieng has already played in Sweden with Vasalund, in South Africa for both Marumo Gallants and Richards Bay as well as in Botswana with Township Rollers, giving him international experience.

He is not new to this stage as he was part of the Harambee Stars squad at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, although he did not feature in any match.

Ocheing’s last appearance for Harambee Stars was in October 2023 during a 2-2 draw with Russia and as he makes a return to the national team fold two years later, he will be looking to grab his opportunity and make himself undroppable.