CAF Champions League

Esperance down Etoile in Tunisian Derby


Ghaylène Chaâlali in Espérance's 2 - 0 away win. Photo | CAF Online
Ghaylène Chaâlali in Espérance's 2 - 0 away win. Photo | CAF Online

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Esperance have zoomed to the top of Group C in the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League after beating Etoile du Sahel 2-0 in the Tunisian Derby at the Stade Olympique de Radès in Tunis on Saturday.

Abdel Kader Bedrane and Mohamed Ali Ben Romdhane scored the goals for Esperance as they moved to eight points, same as second placed CR Belouizdad.

While Esperance moved closer to a place in the last eight, Etoile now have to win their remaining two games to progress. They are still on three points and third in the group. Meanwhile, Jwaneng Galaxy can officially not qualify for the quarter finals as they are bottom with a point.

Esperance were on from the start and wanted to get an early goal. Bedrane had a chance after 11 minutes but his header missed the target.

Despite the high tempo, none of the two sides could get a goal in the opening half.

In the second period, Esperance kept their front running on and in the 66th minute they had a goal when Bedrane picked up a freekick before beating the keeper.

Abdel Kader Bedrane celebrates his opener for Esperance against Etoile. Photo | Abdel Kader Bedrane (Facebook Page)

Esperance sealed the victory 10 minutes later when Ben Romdhane scored his fourth goal of the tournament with a rasping shot from distance. The 2-0 lead was a comfortable pick for Esperance who managed the game till the final whistle.

Mohamed Ali Ben Romdhane seals victory for Esperance. Photo @CAFCLCC