Harambee Stars defender Alphonce Omija has continued to make headlines in Tunisia after helping Etoile du Sahel secure their third consecutive league victory while maintaining an impressive defensive record. The 21-year-old Kenyan has quickly adapted to life at the Tunisian giants, becoming a central figure in their recent resurgence.
Omija joined the 11-time Tunisian champions before the start of the season and wasted no time establishing himself as a dependable presence in the heart of defence. Although the team had a slow start and suffered an early exit from the CAF Confederation Cup after losing to Nairobi United, they have since rediscovered their rhythm.
Etoile du Sahel’s turnaround has been marked by a run of three straight wins, all achieved without conceding a single goal. The team edged Zarzis 1-0 on Wednesday, following a 2-0 victory over Metlaoui last weekend and another 2-0 triumph against AS Marsa earlier in October. These results have reignited belief among fans that the club can still challenge for a top finish despite trailing leaders Esperance by nine points.
Omija’s composure, strong tackling, and leadership at the back have been crucial to this defensive solidity. His ability to read the game and organize the backline has made him a key component in Etoile du Sahel’s strategy. The former Gor Mahia defender is proving his quality in a league known for its physicality and tactical discipline.
Celebrating the team’s recent progress, Omija expressed optimism about what lies ahead, posting online: “Getting closer. To many more days like this.” His statement reflects both satisfaction with their current form and a hunger for continued success.
The club’s recent improvements have also been linked to the arrival of new coach Mohamed Ali Nafkha, who took over in October. Nafkha has brought renewed discipline and balance to the team, helping restore confidence after their disappointing continental campaign.
With three straight clean sheets and growing team cohesion, Etoile du Sahel now looks poised to climb the league standings. For Omija, the challenge is to maintain consistency and keep building his reputation as one of the most promising Kenyan defenders abroad. His performances in Tunisia could also boost his chances of cementing a regular spot in the Harambee Stars lineup.
