Harambee Stars defender Alphonce Omija featured for the entire match as Étoile Sportive du Sahel edged US Monastir 1–0 in the Coastal Derby played at the Stade Olympique de Sousse on Saturday afternoon.
Étoile claimed the win thanks to a first-half strike, in a game characterised by tactical discipline and solid defending. The hosts began confidently, dominating possession early, while US Monastir remained well organised and compact, looking dangerous only on the break.
The deadlock was broken in the 18th minute when Mohamed Rayane Anane reacted quickest inside the box to slot home from close range after sustained pressure from Étoile’s attack. The goal proved decisive and sent the home supporters into celebration.
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Étoile du Sahel edge US Monastir
Following the opener, Monastir pushed forward in search of an equaliser, but Étoile’s defensive unit remained resilient.
At the centre of that backline,the former Gor Mahia defender produced a composed and commanding display, cutting out danger and helping his side preserve their narrow advantage going into half-time.
In the second half, the rhythm of the game remained similar Monastir had spells of possession but lacked clear cutting opportunities, while Étoile defended with organisation and discipline.
Coach’s tactical changes looked to inject energy into both sides, but the well-structured defence of Étoile held firm.
Étoile made a substitution in the 63rd minute, with Moussa Senghor replaced by Mohamed Yassine Chaabani in an effort to refresh the forward line and maintain attacking threat.
As the match wound down, Monastir increased their urgency, bringing on attacking options in search of a leveller, but Étoile’s defence marshalled expertly by Omija remained steadfast.
At the final whistle, Étoile du Sahel secured all three points in a match where fine margins separated the sides.
The win also marked Étoile’s third consecutive clean sheet since Omija’s return to the starting eleven, highlighting his growing influence at the heart of the defence and the team’s improved solidity.
Étoile du Sahel vs US Monastir lineups
Étoile Sportive du Sahel
Goalkeeper:
- Sabri Ben Hassen
Defenders:
- Alphonce Omija
- Houssem Dagdoug
- Zied Boughattas
- Slim Khadraoui
Midfielders:
- Fedi Ben Choug
- Mohamed Baayou
- Mohamed Chouchane
- Cristo
Forwards:
- Mohamed Rayane Anane
- Moussa Senghor (subbed off, 63’)
Substitutes used:
- Mohamed Yassine Chaabani (on, 63’)
US Monastir
Goalkeeper:
- Rami Besbes
Defenders:
- Aymen Hallaoui
- Nassim Hnid
- Rami Azzouz
- Ali Abdi
- Maher Kanzari
Midfielders:
- Youssef Aouani
- Firas Chaouat
- Ghassen Gharbi
Forwards:
- Youssef Abid
- Haithem Jouini