Espérance de Tunis conceded a disappointing draw this afternoon against Olympique de Béja (1-1) at the Radès Stadium, in the 14th round of Ligue 1. This result confirms fears of a let-up following their strong run in the Champions League.
From the opening minutes, it was clear that the Blood and Gold didn't display the same motivation as they had in continental competition. Several players seemed below their usual level, which impacted the fluidity and quality of the team's play.
On the other side, Olympique de Béja adopted a very restrictive defensive strategy, significantly disrupting the flow of the match. By frequently stopping play, wasting time, and engaging in dubious challenges, the visitors managed to break the rhythm and limit the effective playing time to less than 25 minutes for the entire match. A questionable tactic, but one that proved effective.
Despite enjoying territorial dominance, Espérance struggled to create clear-cut chances against a very compact low block. Worse still, Olympique de Béja managed to open the scoring against the run of play in added time of the first half (45’+2). Bahaeddine Cherni capitalized on a well-placed free-kick and a defensive error by the Blood and Gold to score. A bitter disappointment for the supporters present at Radès.
At the start of the second half, coach Laurentiu Reghecampf reacted by making four simultaneous substitutions, aiming to revitalize his team. While these adjustments provided some impetus, they weren't enough to overcome the time-wasting tactics orchestrated by OB.
The equalizer finally came in the 69th minute thanks to a magnificent team move. Mokwana delivered a precise cross that Koussay Maâcha headed home with a splendid diving header, leaving goalkeeper Smaoui helpless.
The final ten minutes were marked by constant pressure from Espérance in search of a winning goal. However, OB continued to defend resolutely, even if it meant suffering the consequences. Their defender Chalghoumi was sent off in the 80th minute for accumulating yellow cards, but this didn't allow the Blood and Gold to make the difference. The score remained unchanged until the final whistle.
This draw, which feels like a defeat for Espérance, is seen as a significant achievement for Olympique de Béja. Reghecampf's players must now turn the page and focus on next Sunday's crucial away game against US Monastir at the Ben Jannet Stadium. A reaction is expected to stay on course in the league.
EST Lineup: Ben Saïd, Bouzaïène (Ben Ali 46'), Ben Mohamed (Jelassi 46'), Smiri, Tougaï(c), Azouni (Maâcha 62'), Tka, Ogbelu (Aholou 46'), Sasse (Mokwana 46'), Belaïli, and Jabri.