Ahead of the highly anticipated first matchday of the CAF Champions League group stage, Laurentiu Reghecampf addressed the media in the traditional pre-match press conference. The Tunisian giants' Romanian coach expressed a blend of confidence and caution as his side prepares to face Malian opponents Djoliba AC.

“My team is ready,” he declared straight away, underlining that the clash against Djoliba AC will be a completely different ball game compared to the recent league match against US Ben Guerdane. “This match will be different because we’re playing at home, in front of our fans, and our internationals have had the chance to rest a bit after their national team duties.”

Reghecampf insisted that his team won’t be fooled by Djoliba AC’s limited number of matches this season. “We’ve studied their game in detail. Their season has just started, but we’ve watched their performances and shared all the necessary information with the players.”

The coach also gave an update on his squad, a crucial question ahead of this continental showdown. “Apart from Sasse and Tougaï, all other players are available, which is excellent news. We have the resources to compensate for Sasse’s absence. It shouldn’t be a problem.”

Finally, Reghecampf called for unity and determination, aware of the importance of this opening match. “Tomorrow, we must show our true colors. We have a result to achieve, especially as we’ll be playing in front of our supporters, the same supporters who deserve a victory to kick off the group stage.”

With almost a full squad, a well-defined game plan, and motivation boosted by the support of the Radès Stadium crowd, Espérance de Tunis seems ready to rise to the challenge against the Malian champions. Now, it's time for the pitch to confirm these ambitions.