The 2023/2024 Tunisian Ligue 1 season is drawing to a close, and Espérance de Tunis is set to play its final match tomorrow at the Taïeb Mhiri Stadium in Sfax. Facing off against CS Sfaxien, the Blood and Gold are approaching this match with serenity, having already secured their status as Tunisian champions.
For Espérance players, this match on the 10th and final day of the Playoffs takes on a special character. It is above all a formality, an opportunity to end the season in style. Some of the team's senior players, such as Sasse and Rodrigues, have been released to join their loved ones in Brazil, a sign of the confidence placed by the coaching staff in the other members of the team. This match therefore offers a golden opportunity for the less used players to show their worth and score points for next season.
Coach Miguel Cardoso, while aware of the less competitive aspect of this match for his team, insists on the importance of maintaining the level of effort and concentration. "We have to apply ourselves until the end and finish on a positive note," he said after last Sunday's match. For Espérance, the objective is clear: to play seriously and with respect for the championship and their opponents.
On the other hand, the stakes are high for CS Sfaxien. Still in the running for the 3rd place qualifying for the CAF Confederation Cup, every point counts. A positive result against Espérance would be crucial for CSS's African ambitions. The challenge is however daunting, as Espérance, even with a revamped team, remains a formidable opponent.
Tomorrow's match promises to be exciting and full of suspense. The Blood and Gold, free from all pressure, could well offer their supporters an enjoyable spectacle before savoring a few well-deserved weeks of rest. For the fans, it is also a last chance to see their team in action before turning the page and looking ahead to the 2024/2025 season, which promises to be full of great ambitions.