Zied Machmoum’s header eight minutes to time handed Esperance a draw away from home in their second Group C match of the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League after playing to a 1-1 draw with CR Belouizdad in Algiers on Saturday.

Karim Aribi’s first half penalty had given the Algerians a first half 1-0 lead, but Esperance fought back to storm top of the group with four points after two matches.

Aribi gave CRB the lead after quarter of an hour, converting from the penalty spot after Larbi Tabti had been clipped inside the box by Ghaylen Chaaleli.

It was a fantastic start for the home side as they were more adventurous in the opening minutes. However, they could not extend their lead despite having some chances to score.

In the second half it was Esperance who came back hungrier. Mohamed Ben Romdhane, the hattrick hero from last week’s victory over Jwaneng Galaxy had a chance at goal with a shot from distance which flew over.

The Tunisians kept the pressure as they sought the equalizer. They were rewarded in the 82nd minute when Machmoum towered beyond his marker to send in a thumping header from Sabir Bougrine’s cross.

The goal would change the color of the game for the remaining eight minutes as the home side went back on the attack, as they sought to get the maximum points.

They almost scored in the first minute of added time when Zakaria Draoui rose inside the box to connect to a freekick, but his well angled header went inches over the target.

Belouizdad sit third in the table with two points after back to back draws.