Espérance de Tunis claimed a precious three points this Sunday afternoon in Sfax, defeating CS Sfaxien 2-1 in a thrilling encounter for Matchday 12 of the Tunisian Ligue 1. In a heated atmosphere at the Taïeb Mhiri Stadium, the Blood and Gold once again demonstrated their character and winning mentality, overcoming fatigue and adversity to secure a crucial win that puts them at the top of the league table.
Right from the kick-off, Espérance showed clear intent, pressing high and dictating the tempo. But the hosts quickly responded with dangerous attacks. In the 5th minute, a defensive lapse almost cost the visitors, but Béchir Ben Saïd produced a fine save to deny the opener. Two minutes later, he was at it again, diving to stop a curling shot from Mohamed Trabelsi, and once more at the 12th minute on a long-range effort - a brilliant start for the Espérance goalkeeper.
The early stages were intense, and unfortunately, a serious blow came at the 20th minute when Florian Danho Séké suffered a nasty cut above the eye and had to be replaced by Achraf Jabri. The referee, surprisingly lenient, allowed some rough challenges that frustrated the visitors.
At the 24th minute, Youcef Belaïli was brought down inside the box but the referee waved play on - until VAR stepped in to correct the call. Penalty for Espérance! Hamza Jelassi took responsibility and calmly converted in the 27th minute to give his team the lead (0-1).
CS Sfaxien pushed back immediately, and after a near miss on a direct corner from Belaïli at the 32nd minute, the hosts were awarded a controversial penalty of their own at the 40th. Hichem Baccar made no mistake, levelling the score at 1-1 just before halftime.
But Espérance reacted instantly. Only a minute later, a well-taken corner from Boualia found Belaïli, whose powerful header beat Dahmane to restore the lead (1-2). A goal made in Algeria - and a perfect response before the break.
After the restart, Espérance managed the tempo wisely, relying on experience and defensive solidity. Belaïli remained a constant threat, forcing Dahmane into another save from a free kick at the 51st minute. Ben Saïd, meanwhile, continued his fine form with a key stop on a Maâloul free kick in the 58th.
As time went on, the game settled into a midfield battle, with fewer clear chances and plenty of tension on both sides - not helped by inconsistent refereeing. Late in stoppage time, Konaté could have sealed it but his shot was brilliantly denied by Dahmane (90’+4).
When the final whistle blew, Espérance could celebrate a hard-earned and well-deserved 2-1 victory on hostile ground.
This win in Sfax is a statement. It confirms Espérance’s ability to perform under pressure and maintain momentum despite a demanding schedule. With determination, tactical discipline, and a touch of class, the Blood and Gold have reclaimed their place at the summit of the Ligue 1 standings.
EST Lineup: Ben Saïd, Ben Ali, Ben Hamida, Jelassi (Guenichi 59'), Meriah(c), Ogbelu, Tka, Jebali (Elaïfi 60'), Boualia (Konaté 46'), Belaïli and Danho (Jabri 20' then Maâcha 86').
Booking: Jebali, Ben Ali.