Kenya’s U20 team, Rising Stars, left back Talena Ochieng has signed with the leading sporting agency, Revive Sports Management.
A product of the Makongeni Sports Association (MASA) Ochieng is one of the most-promising defenders in the Kenyan top tier despite being his first time in the competition.
Currently plying his trade with four-time Kenyan champions, Ulinzi Stars, the 17-year-old has defied experience to secure regular game time ahead of his experienced seniors.
With two rounds remaining in the 2024-2025 season, Ochieng’s numbers speak volumes of his potential that has seen him establish himself as one of the hottest prospects in the league.
His wicked deliveries from set pieces and crosses have seen him register four assists (in matches against; AFC Leopards, Shabana, Murang’a Seal and Bidco United) and could add more numbers to his tally in the final rounds.
The goal contributions have been a top up on his impressive defensive attributes, which include solid performances at left back and occasional shifts at central defence.
Ochieng inverts with ease and has also demonstrated ability to slot in midfield thanks to the calmness and composure he has shows while in possession.
Born and raised in Makongeni area in Nairobi, Ochieng began playing football at Makongeni Primary School, with his talent opening the opportunity to study at Vihiga Friends High School.
He had stints with Green Commandos during his time as a student and would join the defunct National Super League (NSL) side Rainbow FC after writing his final exams.
His performances during inter-school games and at Commandos earned him a slot in the Kenyan boys’ U19 team that clinched the Costa Daurada Cup held in March 2024 in Spain.
Further, Ulinzi Stars kept a close eye on him and would acquire his signature before the start of the season, after he impressed while at Vickers FC, an outfit that has consistently supplied the senior team with exciting talents.
Ochieng was part of the Rising Stars squad that represented Kenya in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations finals (AFCON U20) in Cairo, Egypt.
Revive Sports Management Chief Executive Officer Feisal Osman was full of praises for the youngster.
“Talena is one of the promising defenders in the Kenyan top-tier. He has so far played for the national junior team and from the look of things, he is destined for the senior one and at the professional, ” remarked Osman
Player Profile
Full name- Talena Ochieng
Date of birth- 7/11/2007
Place of birth- Makongeni, Nairobi
Attributes- tackling, overlapping, crossing, positioning, deliveries, communication, marking, blocking crosses
Primary- Makongeni Primary School
High School- Vihiga Friends
Former clubs- MASA FC,Green Commandos ,Rainbow FC and Vickers
Role model- Andy Robertson