Espérance Sportive de Tunis secured a commanding 3-0 victory against EGS Gafsa this afternoon at the Gafsa Stadium, in a matchday 11 fixture of Ligue 1. This encounter saw significant squad rotation for the Blood and Gold, with eight changes compared to last Sunday's derby.
The match began tentatively and scrappily, a predictable scenario given the tactical rotation implemented by the coaching staff and the poor state of the pitch, which caused numerous problems for the players. The first twenty minutes were characterized by a lack of clear-cut chances and a slow tempo.
It wasn't until the 28th minute that Espérance created their first real opportunity, which resulted in a goal. Mokwana, after a good run down the left wing, played the ball to Ben Ali. Ben Ali delivered an instant cross, perfectly met by Kada, who threw himself forward to guide the ball into the back of the net with a precise side-footed finish. This goal gave Espérance the lead (0-1).
The Blood and Gold could have doubled their advantage before half-time. Mokwana, well-positioned in the 33rd minute thanks to a pass from Kada, couldn't control the ball cleanly. Then, from a free-kick taken by Azouni in the 40th minute, Tougai's powerful header narrowly missed the post. The first half concluded with a 1-0 scoreline.
After the break, Espérance continued to press. In the 52nd minute, Konaté tried his luck with a powerful shot that went wide. But it was only a matter of time: in the 59th minute, Azouni delivered a perfectly weighted free-kick. Mokwana, at the receiving end, struck a left-footed shot that left goalkeeper Jeridi, caught off guard, with no chance. The score then became 2-0.
Despite some untidy play at times, the Blood and Gold continued to create opportunities and control their opponents. In added time (90’+1), a cross from Ben Ali was deflected by Jelassi towards Sowe. One-on-one with Jeridi, Sowe finished calmly to make it 3-0.
Against a modest EGS Gafsa side, Espérance did what was needed with a heavily rotated lineup. This win allows the Blood and Gold to stay focused on their objectives and prepare calmly for next Sunday's classico against CSS, which promises to be a real test.
Well done to the players and staff for this fine performance which reinforces the club's positive momentum in this national competition.
EST Lineup: Ben Saïd, Ben Ali, Ben Hamida(c) (Koudhaï 87'), Jelassi, Tougaï, Ogbelu (Sowe 76'), Azouni, Konaté (Sasse 62'), Mokwana, Derbali (Tka 62') and Kada (Smiri 76').
Booked: Mokwana.