Harambee Stars midfielder Eric Johana bags a*sist for UTA Arad in Super Liga
In the recent Romanian Super Liga play-off encounter, UTA Arad suffered a disappointing 3-1 loss against Hermannstadt, with midfielder Eric Johana's contribution providing a glimmer of hope amidst the defeat.
The match unfolded with an early setback for Arad as they conceded a penalty in the 20th minute, deftly converted by Hermannstadt's Daniel Paraschiv, granting the opposition an early lead. Paraschiv continued his dominance, striking twice more in the second half, leaving Arad trailing 3-0.
Eric Johana assist
Despite the challenging circumstances, Eric Johana showcased his skill and resilience, playing a full 90 minutes and providing an assist that led to Claudiu Micovschi's consolation goal for Arad. 
Johana's journey to Romania began after departing Muangthong United in Thailand in October 2023.
29-year-old midfielder, formerly of Mathare United, committed to a two-season deal with UTA Arad, aiming to make an impact on the pitch and contribute to his new team's success.
Since joining Arad, Johana has featured in 21 matches, showcasing his versatility and knack for finding the back of the net with three goals scored in a total of 1395 minutes of play.
UTA Arad boast a storied history in Romanian football, dating back to its establishment in 1945 under the name IT Arad. The club has enjoyed considerable success in domestic competitions, clinching six national titles and lifting the Cupa României trophy on two occasions.
Despite facing adversity, including relegation to the second division in 1979 and a subsequent dissolution in 2014, UTA Arad has undergone a remarkable resurgence. The club's return to Liga I in 2021, starting from Liga IV, symbolizes its resilience and determination to reclaim its position among Romania's football elite.
About Eric Johana's team
Home matches for UTA Arad are held at the modern Francisc von Neuman Stadium, inaugurated in 2020. The stadium provides a fitting venue for fans to witness the club's resurgence and serves as a symbol of its ambition for future success. 
UTA Arad maintains a fierce rivalry with nearby SSU Politehnica Timișoara, with matches between the two clubs referred to as the West derby. This fixture is steeped in tradition and characterized by intense competition, adding to the excitement of Romanian football.
