Espérance de Tunis were held to a frustrating 0-0 draw by ES Zarzis on Wednesday afternoon at the Abdessalam Kazouz Stadium, in a Matchday 10 fixture of the Tunisian Ligue 1. A result that clearly disappointed the Blood and Gold, who travelled south determined to claim all three points but had to settle for just one.
The first half offered little excitement, as both teams struggled to find rhythm in a disjointed and balanced contest. Clear chances were few and far between, and the goalless scoreline at the break accurately reflected the lack of real danger in front of goal.
After the interval, Espérance stepped up their game. Maher Kanzari’s men pushed higher up the pitch, imposed their tempo, and created several attacking movements. Zarzis were forced to retreat, relying mainly on quick counter-attacks to threaten the visitors.
The changes made by Kanzari - both in personnel and tactics - helped his side gain more control and increase the pressure on the home defence. The best chance of the game came in the 81st minute when Konaté was brought down inside the box. The referee immediately pointed to the spot. Captain Yassine Meriah, usually reliable from twelve yards, saw his penalty saved by the Zarzis goalkeeper, Charfi, who became the hero of the day.
Despite several late attempts, Espérance could not find the breakthrough and had to settle for a share of the spoils. A satisfactory result for Zarzis, but a disappointing one for the Blood and Gold, who remain third in the standings with 21 points, three behind leaders Stade Tunisien.
A temporary setback for Espérance, who will now look to bounce back in their next fixture against CA Bizertin to stay firmly in the title race.
EST Lineup: Ben Saïd, Keita, Ben Hamida, Jelassi, Meriah(c), Tka, Guenichi (Elaïfi 64'), Jebali (Ogbelu 64'), Boualia (Diakité 64' then Rached 78'), Konaté and Danho (Jabri 51').
Booking: Jelassi, Guenichi, Meriah.