Kenyan international defender Alphonse Omija says he had anticipated his Harambee Stars debut for a long time and it couldn't be better than helping the Stars to a 0-0 draw in a 2026 World Cup qualifier against Cote d'Ivoire.
Omija, who plays for Omani club Dhofar, never put a foot wrong against the Elephants, despite facing tricky Brighton winger Simon Adingra on the left wing at the Bingu National Stadium in Lilongwe, Malawi, on June 11.
"I'm happy to have played well in the tough game against the Elephants, who were favourites having maintained a one hundred per cent record in the opening three Group 'F' games, without conceding," said Omija
The 21-year-old was tasked with stopping Adingra from floating dangerous crosses in the box while keeping a keen eye on Agbadou Emmanuel and Lone Mohammad, who were dangerous on the break.
"I played well out of position from my usual central defence role. I thank God for the chance and look forward to more game time in future," said the youngster.
Omija, formerly of Gor Mahia and Kariobangi Sharks, was called up after Lens defender Joseph Okumu failed to recover in time for the encounter.
Coach Engin Firat played a natural right-back Anyembe at centre-back thus creating room for Omija.
Omija observes teamwork was key in delivering a point against the African champions, especially Rooney Onyango, who always dropped back to help him shut down the Ivorian danger men.
Alongside Johnstone Omurwa, they repelled west African giants, who resorted to shooting from distance. Adingra switched to the left wing at some point and Aboud Omar gave him no chance.
Firat praised the youngster, who got wind of his debut on the eve of the game.
"Omija showed maturity and he fitted well in my plans. That's why I gave him his first senior cup against the Ivorians. He performed well and even when my injured players return, he will be in my plans. He showed that he is a player for big games."
Stopping the African champions saw Kenya drop to fourth in Group F with five points from four matches after Burundi beat Seychelles 3-1.
Gabon maintained second spot with a 3-2 victory over Gambia.
The Ivorians remain top with 10 points ahead of the fifth round of matches in Marchnext year.
