Harambee Stars forward Oscar Wamalwa rages on during the CECAFA Senior Challenge Cup match against Tanzania in Kampala, Uganda, on December 14, 2019. PHOTO/Timothy Olobulu
KAMPALA, Uganda, Dec 15 – Oscar Wamalwa has proved to be a worthy gamble for head coach Francis Kimanzi’s team at the 2019 CECAFA Senior Challenge Cup having scored two goals and made one assist in three matches so far.
The lanky Ulinzi Stars forward was picked in the squad ahead of seasoned John Mark Makwatta and has proved a bargain with his contributions being key for Stars.
He assisted Hassan Abdallah’s goal in the 1-0 win against Tanzania, scored the winner in the 2-1 victory over Sudan and hit the lone goal in Stars’ final Group B match against Zanzibar which they won 1-0.
“I really feel pleased with my performance so far. It is my first time in the national team and I have scored two goals and assisted one; that is a dream start for me. I was given the chance and I took it and I am glad it has paid off,” Wamalwa told Capital Sport.
Harambee Stars forward Oscar Wamalwa celebrates his goal against Zanzibar with teammate Hassan Abdallah during the CECAFA Senior Challenge Cup match in Kampala, Uganda, on December 14, 2019. PHOTO/Timothy Olobulu
“The games have been tough because we have been in a very competitive group and to come out as winners with an unbeaten record is a good achievement for us. Most of us are playing in this tournament for the first time,” he added.
Wamalwa now hopes his form can earn him a slot into the senior national team for next year’s 2021 African Cup of Nations where biggest on his hopes is to play alongside Kenya’s revered striker Michael Olunga and learn a thing or two from him.
“I have watched him and I really admire how he plays and generally his statistics as a striker. It would be my biggest wish to get to train with him and probably play alongside him.”
“It is a good opportunity for me to learn from him. He can teach me how to run, how to position myself as a striker and ultimately improve as a player,” stated the Ulinzi Stars hitman.
Harambee Stars forward Oscar Wamalwa controls the during the CECAFA Senior Challenge Cup match against Zanzibar in Kampala, Uganda, on December 14, 2019. PHOTO/Timothy Olobulu
The striker has started in all Stars’ matches and played the entire 90 and he says the trust bestowed upon him by coach Francis Kimanzi has made him believe more in himself.
“When the coach gives you such a chance, it means that he has seen something in you and now as a player, you need to work harder and prove to him that you deserve. He has helped me improve a lot and I am hoping I can learn more. I believe I still have a long way to go,” Wamalwa further noted.
The talisman joined Ulinzi Stars from Bidco in 2015, signed by former head coach Robert Matano who saw him during a friendly match in Thika.
He has been an instant hit with the Nakuru-based military men and he hopes he can achieve more not only for club but for country as well.
He hopes he can vie for the CECAFA Golden Boot having tied on two goals with several players including teammate Hassan, Uganda’s Allan Okello and Eritrea’s Ali Suleiman Ibrahim.
