Harambee Stars Striker Opens Up On Finland Move and Pressure to Match Michael Olunga

Harambee Stars youngster Lawrence Okoth has opened up about his journey to playing in Europe and the pressure of following in the footsteps of Michael Olunga.

After developing his game locally with Vihiga Bullets, Okoth earned a move to the Michael Olunga Football Academy (MOFA) in early 2024, where his performances quickly caught attention.

His rise continued with a call-up to the Rising Stars, where he made history as the first Kenyan to score at the U-20 Africa Cup of Nations in 2025.

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That breakthrough opened the door to Europe, and in September 2025, he secured a move to SJK Seinäjoki, marking a major step in his career.

Lawrence Okoth’s steady adaptation to life in Finland soon earned him a maiden senior call-up to the Harambee Stars.

Recently, he was part of the Harambee Stars squad that clinched a bronze medal in the FIFA Series, following a narrow 5-4 penalty loss to Estonia and a convincing 3-0 victory over Grenada.

Lawrence Okoth expressed determination to make the most of future opportunities under head coach Benni McCarthy, stating that he is focused on improving his finishing and hopes to make a stronger impact in front of goal when given another chance.

The young forward also highlighted the important role senior players have played in his development, noting that their guidance and support have helped shape his growth both on and off the pitch.

He added that he draws inspiration from experienced teammates, particularly Michael Olunga, whom he looks up to and hopes to emulate in his career.

Lawrence Okoth acknowledged the challenge of stepping into a role associated with a player of Olunga’s stature, emphasising that it comes with great responsibility and requires consistent hard work and dedication.

“Next time, maybe, if I get another chance, I will score. The senior players have encouraged me a lot, and I follow in their footsteps. That’s a big shoe; I must work hard,” Lawrence Okoth said.

“This was my dream growing up, and now I’m progressing, and it’s been a great journey. I want to score goals for my country.”

Lawrence Okoth further explained that settling into life and football in Finland has come with its challenges, particularly due to the faster pace and higher intensity of the game compared to what he was used to.

He noted that the adjustment period was not easy at first, but added that he has been putting in the effort to adapt, gradually finding his rhythm and becoming more comfortable with both the playing style and environment as he continues to catch up.

“The transition has not been easy because you know the pace there is a bit higher, but I have tried to adapt with them, and now I’m catching up,” Lawrence Okoth shared.