Harambee Stars Defender Baron Ochieng Warms Bench as Zamalek Secure Crucial Victory

Kenyan youngster Baron Ochieng was named in Zamalek's matchday team for the game against Masry but had to be content with a place on the bench as the White Knights romped to an effortless 3-0 win in the Egyptian Premier League.

The gifted defender, who penned a 2029 contract for Cairo giants, was in Yannick Ferrera's team for the first time since his move but still has not appeared in a much-anticipated debut.

The 20-year-old, who captained Kenya at the U20 Africa Cup of Nations this year, is regarded as one of East Africa's finest defensive prospects.

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His development will be watched closely by both Harambee Stars and Zamalek fans as he hunts for minutes in a side that is rebuilding following a difficult 2024–25 campaign.

Despite being included in the bench, Ochieng did not see action as Zamalek's first choice could easily diffuse the challenge posed by Masry.

Palestinian forward Oday Dabbagh scored the first goal in the 30th minute, capitalizing on a deflection inside the box to create space.

Midfielder Omar Gaber added a second at the end of the second half, before Abdallah El-Said finished off the three points from a stoppage-time penalty.

Ferrera favored experience on defense, sending out a defense quartet that has impressed the past couple of weeks. Mohamed Abdelghani led the center defense, well supported by defensive full-backs Hossam Abdelmaguid and Ahmed Abou El-Fotouh.

Ochieng's inclusion in the squad, however, signals that the coaching staff is preparing to introduce him gradually, perhaps giving him some minutes in coming games as the season progresses.

Masry's delayed collapse after Mohamed Hashem's dismissal earned Zamalek a shutout, thereby maintaining their excellent start to the season with four wins in six games.

The victory moves them to 13 points, two points clear at the helm.

Ferrera has been cautious when handling youth players in Zamalek's rebuilding process of the team.

Ochieng, who started out from Kibera Black Stars' junior ranks and has represented Kenya at U18 and U20 level, will add pace and agility that could be absolutely crucial as the side look to go toe-to-toe on multiple fronts.

The Belgian manager does, however, seem keen to acclimate him slowly to Egyptian top-flight football rather than thrust him towards a rushed debut.

Keeping Ochieng out of the action is also a strategic decision, with Zamalek's present back four being some of the most dependable in the league thus far this season.

There are CAF Confederation Cup commitments coming up soon, so rotation will be necessary within the squad to provide Ochieng with opportunities to grow in less demanding environments.

Zamalek next host Ismaily on Thursday in what would be another challenging test.

Ferrera is expected to take selective changes and provide a chance to fringe players like Ochieng, Ahmed Sherif, and Abdel Hamid Maali.