Tonight, at the 26 of March stadium in Bamako, Espérance de Tunis delivered a major performance, securing a 1-0 victory against Djoliba AC in the 5th matchday of the CAF Champions League group stage. A hard-fought but well-deserved win that propels the Blood and Gold into the quarter-finals while also granting them provisional first place in Group D.
From the opening minutes, it was evident that the poor pitch conditions would complicate matters for both teams, especially for Espérance, accustomed to quick ball circulation. The Malians imposed intense pressing from the start of the encounter.
Despite the opposing pressure, Espérance created several goal-scoring opportunities. In the 10th minute, the Blood and Gold narrowly avoided disaster when a Malian effort hit Béchir Ben Saïd's crossbar. Shortly after, Belaïli, ever so incisive, provided a pinpoint pass to Tka and Konaté, but they were unable to convert (17’).
The clearest chance came in the 19th minute when Jelassi, well-served by an excellent cross from Ben Ali, sent a powerful header that struck the post. Despite these numerous opportunities, the score remained goalless at half-time, leaving a sense of unfinished business for the Blood and Gold.
Returning from the dressing rooms, the Blood and Gold continued to push forward. In the 50th minute, Sasse almost opened the scoring but was denied by an inspired Malian goalkeeper. Two minutes later, Sasse attempted a powerful strike from a Belaïli pass, but Koita made another spectacular save.
The turning point of the match finally arrived in the 67th minute. Ben Hamida, after a surge down the left flank, delivered a perfect cross for Mokwana. The latter, quick and well-positioned, had no difficulty in slotting the ball into the back of the net. A goal that was met with an explosion of joy on the Espérance bench.
In the final minutes, Espérance adopted a cautious approach to maintain their advantage. The introductions of Ogbelu and Aholou in midfield helped to stabilize the game, despite a few scares on the counter-attack. Belaïli, always dangerous, attempted a powerful shot (73’) before seeing another of his attempts go over the bar (90’+2). Finally, Maâcha missed the opportunity to double the lead in stoppage time after a brilliant through ball from Tougaï (90’+3).
At the final whistle, the Blood and Gold could finally celebrate. This victory allows Espérance to secure their place in the quarter-finals and take a strong hold on first place in Group D before the final matchday. The players and staff deserve congratulations for achieving this objective under difficult conditions.
The next appointment is set for the 6th and final matchday, next Saturday in Radès against GD Sagrada Esperança, where Espérance will look to confirm their leading position and best prepare for the next stage of their African journey. Well done to the Blood and Gold for this solid and promising performance!
EST Lineup: Ben Saïd, Ben Ali (Ogbelu 59'), Ben Hamida(c), Jelassi, Tougaï, Azouni (Aholou 59'), Tka, Konaté (Bouzaïène 88'), Sasse (Ben Mohamed 75'), Belaïli et Mokwana (Maâcha 88').
Booked: Azouni, Belaïli, Mokwana.