Harambee Stars wonderkid Job Ochieng’s goal not enough as Real Sociedad B are dealt LaLiga 2 promotion blow

Harambee Stars wonderkid Job Ochieng’s goal not enough as Real Sociedad B are dealt LaLiga 2 promotion blow

Mark Kinyanjui 09:19 - 03.03.2025

Harambee Stars prospect Job Ochieng's goal was not enough as Real Sociedad B were dealt blow in their promotion hopes to LaLiga2 on Sunday

Harambee Stars prospect Job Ochieng was on song for Real Sociedad B, but his efforts were not enough to prevent the Basque-based outfit from losing 2-1 to Athletic Bilbao B in a derby clash that took place on Sunday afternoon, hence dealing them a blow in their La Liga 2 promotion hopes.

Ochieng, who has been a rising star since joining Real Sociedad in 2022, electrified fans by putting his team in the lead with a well-placed goal in the 66th minute.

However, the jubilation was short-lived, as Asier Hierro responded swiftly, equalizing in the 71st minute. 

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The match took a dramatic turn when Ekain Azkune delivered the decisive strike, sealing Athletic Bilbao B's victory and leaving Real Sociedad B grappling with their second-place position on the table, now a daunting ten points behind Cultural Leonesa.

Despite the loss, Ochieng's performance was nothing short of exceptional. As a right winger, he dominated his opponents, successfully taking on defenders nine times, making two critical passes, and winning 11 of his 17 ground duels. 

Ochieng has proven to be a beacon of hope and talent in Spanish football, showcasing his prowess with Real Sociedad B in the third tier.

Ochieng’s journey

Ochieng's journey from Kenya to Spain is the stuff of footballing fairy tales. Starting at Ligi Ndogo FC, a renowned academy for nurturing young talent, he made a bold move to Spain at just 17, landing in Maspalomas, Gran Canaria.

 There, under the tutelage of Canarian football legend Javi Martel, Ochieng flourished in the U19 B and División de Honor teams, earning a promotion to the first team.

Yet, Ochieng's path was far from smooth. He faced setbacks, including an unsuccessful trial at Las Palmas. 

Undeterred, Maspalomas coach Carlos Gaumet, recognizing his potential, sent video clips of the young Kenyan to Mikel Aramayo of Global Ases representation agency. The footage caught the eye of Real Sociedad, who invited him to their academy, Zubieta, despite Ochieng nursing an ankle injury at the time.

The trials at Real Sociedad were a resounding success, leading to a two-year contract and impressive performances in the youth teams. 

Ochieng's transition from the C team, where he made eight appearances, to the B team, with 19 matches in the 2023/24 season, has cemented his status as a promising talent on the rise.

As Real Sociedad B continues their quest for promotion, Ochieng's star is undoubtedly on the ascent, with fans and scouts alike eagerly watching his every move.