How a Congolese forward sealed Benson Omala's fate at JS Saoura

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FOOTBALL How a Congolese forward sealed Benson Omala's fate at JS Saoura

Festus Chuma 12:00 - 06.02.2024

JS Saoura failed to sign Benson Omalla due to transfer deadline issues opting instead for a Congolese striker.

After failing to complete the much-anticipated move to sign Gor Mahia striker Benson Omala, Algerian side Jeunesse Sportive de Saoura (JS Saoura) swiftly shifted gears acquiring the services of Republic of Congo international Carl Wunda Ngana.

The saga unfolded with high expectations as JS Saoura expressed a strong interest in Omalla a leading scorer in the FKF Premier League.

The deal, poised to be a six-month loan with an option for a permanent move, promised mutual benefits. Gor Mahia was set to receive a lucrative Ksh 3.2 million from the loan, while Omalla was eyeing a monthly salary of Ksh 1.3 million.

However, the deal hit a snag due to timing and logistical complications. The primary hurdle was the closure of the Algerian transfer window, which occurred before the formalities of Omala's transfer could be completed. This delay was a significant blow, as both the player and K'Ogalo had high hopes for the move.

Complicating matters further was the issue of foreign player slots at JS Saoura. Algerian clubs have restrictions on the number of foreign players they can register, and with Omala's deal stalling, JS Saoura found themselves in a predicament. Enter Carl Wunda Ngana, a rising talent from Diables Noirs, who was also available for a similar loan arrangement.

Wunda's signing was not just a mere replacement but a strategic decision by JS Saoura. He arrived with a commendable track record, having established himself at Diables Noirs and previously at Jeunesse Sportive de Talangaï JST.

This move essentially closed the door for Omala, as JS Saoura had filled their foreign player quota and addressed their immediate needs.

It is a classic case of timing and opportunity in football transfers – Wunda was available at the right time, and JS Saoura acted decisively.

For Omalla, this development is undoubtedly a setback, especially considering his impressive performance in the FKF Premier League.

He had emerged as the runner-up in the Golden Boot race last season, netting 26 goals. His journey has been remarkable, from his breakout season with Western Stima, where he scored nine goals while still a high school student, to his stint with FC Linkoping City in Sweden.

As for JS Saoura, currently positioned ninth in the Algerian top flight, the acquisition of Wunda could prove to be a pivotal moment in their season. 

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