Harambee Stars left-back Erick Ouma delivered an impressive performance on Sunday, scoring a goal and providing an assist as Polish side Raków Częstochowa secured a crucial 4-2 victory over Legia Warsaw in the 14th round of the PKO BP Ekstraklasa.
The Kenyan international started the encounter at the Łazienkowska Stadium and played an important role in helping his side claim all three points in an entertaining contest against one of Poland’s biggest clubs.
Raków took the lead in the 21st minute through Patryk Makuch, who finished off a well-worked move after Fran Tudor picked him out with a pass that split the Legia Warsaw defence.
The visitors went into the break with a narrow advantage after surviving several attempts from the hosts, who were looking to find an equaliser before half-time.
Legia came out stronger after the restart and eventually drew level in the 56th minute when Kacper Chodyna unleashed a powerful effort that found the back of the net.
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However, Raków responded almost immediately, with Ouma restoring their lead through an excellent finish from a tight angle on the left side. The goal highlighted the Kenyan defender’s attacking qualities, as he showed composure to find the target from a difficult position.
The 29-year-old was not done yet, as he turned provider moments later. Operating down the left flank, Ouma delivered a dangerous cross into the penalty area, where Oliwier Kwiatkowski was perfectly positioned to head home and extend Raków’s advantage.
It was a memorable contribution from the former Gor Mahia defender, who demonstrated his ability to influence matches at both ends of the pitch.
Legia refused to give up and reduced the deficit through Vahan Bichakhchyan, whose long-range effort gave the hosts renewed hope of getting something from the encounter.
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The home side thought they had found another equaliser through Robert Deziel Jr., but the goal was ruled out after the officials determined that Bogdan Viunnyk had interfered with goalkeeper Tarik Karić.
Raków took advantage of the reprieve and put the contest beyond Legia’s reach in the 72nd minute when Kwiatkowski completed his brace, calmly slotting the ball into an empty net to make it 4-2.
Despite Legia’s attempts to mount another comeback in the closing stages, Raków held on to secure a valuable away victory.
The result represents an important boost for Raków, who have been struggling in the league this season and are fighting to move away from the relegation zone. The victory lifted them to 16th place in the standings, giving them renewed hope as they look to improve their position in the coming fixtures.