Wilkims Ochieng's rise from Club Brugge to FC Koper and earning a Harambee Stars call-up has suddenly taken an unexpected twist.
Wilkims Ochieng burst onto the international football scene with a flair for the dramatic, showcasing a talent that quickly drew the eyes of the world to his lightning pace and remarkable ball control.
When he joined Belgian titans Club Brugge in 2017, it seemed the sky was the limit for the then-16-year-old prodigy.
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His tenure at Club Brugge marked a significant milestone in his fledgling career, embodying the hopes and dreams of many young talents as he graduated from the club’s youth system to the brink of the first team.
Ochieng's name echoed across Europe during a UEFA Youth League match in late 2019, where he scored a sensational goal that secured a 2-0 victory for Club Brugge U19 against PSG U19.
Known for his pace, precision in ball control, and exceptional shooting prowess, Ochieng had all the hallmarks of a highly-rated striker, and he was poised to cement his place in Philip Clement's squad as he honed his skills.
The journey through the ranks of professional football is often unpredictable, and Ochieng's path took a new turn when he departed from Club Brugge in July 2022.
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He continued his footballing journey with Belgian side Club NXT before venturing to Slovenia with FC Koper. During his stint with the Slovenian club, he appeared in seven official matches, and his performances only fueled his growing reputation in the footballing world.
Despite his move away from the limelight since July 2023, Ochieng remains a hot topic in the transfer market, with an estimated value of €50,000 — approximately Ksh 7.5 million. This valuation speaks volumes of his perceived potential and the impact he can have on any team he joins next.
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The young striker's international experience is just as impressive as his club career. He has donned the Belgian colors, representing the nation's U16 side in 2018 at the tender age of 15.
Ochieng featured in four friendly matches against formidable opponents such as Denmark, Portugal, and Germany—twice. His performances in these games have left an indelible mark on his career, showcasing his ability to compete at the highest levels of youth football.
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Scriven has been recognised for his stellar performances which have played a big part in helping a struggling IL Hodd fight bravely against relegation from the Norwegian first division.
Despite his success with Belgium's youth teams, Ochieng's roots have not been forgotten. He remains eligible to play for Kenya's national team, the Harambee Stars, and received a call-up to the provisional squad for the 2022 World Cup qualifiers against Uganda and Rwanda.
As football fans in the country continue to ask, "Where is Wilkins Ochieng?" it is clear that his story is far from over.
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The young striker, with a career that has already spanned multiple countries and leagues, remains a name to watch in the transfer market.
Football fans await with bated breath to see where Ochieng's talents will take him next.
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