Ian Otieno Shines with Man of the Match Performance, Sending a Strong Message to Harambee Stars Coach
Harambee Stars goalkeeper Ian Otieno has put himself firmly in the running for a national team call-up after delivering a man of the match display for his South African club, Richards Bay, on Sunday.
Otieno, who recently joined Richards Bay, was making his second start in South Africa’s Premier Super League and showcased a series of impressive saves against the formidable Orlando Pirates. Despite his best efforts, Otieno was finally beaten late in the game by a moment of individual brilliance.
The contest appeared to hinge on a decisive moment, with Otieno single-handedly keeping Richards Bay in the game through several key saves in both halves.
In the 19th minute, the former Zesco United goalkeeper was called into action when South African forward Tshegofatso Mabasa unleashed a powerful shot, which Otieno saved, although the Pirates striker was flagged for offside.
Just after the hour mark, Otieno made another superb save, denying South African winger Relebohile Mofokeng, who had worked his way past defenders and attempted a curling shot. Otieno dived acrobatically to keep the effort out.
A pivotal moment came when Otieno spilled Mofokeng’s fierce shot, allowing Namibian forward Deon Hotto a clear chance on the rebound. However, Otieno managed to block Hotto’s follow-up with his foot, preventing what looked like a sure goal.
Unfortunately, nine minutes from the end, Otieno could do nothing to stop Kabelo Dlamini’s stunning free-kick, which flew into the top corner, leaving the goalkeeper rooted to the spot.
Despite the late goal, Otieno’s performance was a standout, marking his first significant showing since his last appearance for Harambee Stars in October 2021.
Reflecting on the match, Otieno said: “The game was okay, I was unlucky to let one in, but I’m confident that the team will improve going forward. It’s a marathon, not a sprint. We’re still in it and won’t give up.”
He added: “This kind of game motivates you. I’m settling in well, and the team, management, and everyone at the club have given me a warm welcome.”
Otieno has frequently been called up to the Harambee Stars squad but has often found himself dropped or relegated to the bench, with coach Engin Firat preferring Bandari’s Bryne Odhiambo and Kenya Police’s Patrick Matasi as his first-choice goalkeepers.
However, with Harambee Stars set to face Cameroon in a crucial doubleheader next month for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, Otieno’s standout performance is sure to give Firat something to think about ahead of the squad selection.
