Espérance de Tunis cemented their status as African football giants tonight at the Stade de Radès, delivering a commanding 2-0 victory over Pyramids FC. A masterful first-half performance, inspired by Youcef Belaïli and collective efficiency, set the tone for a memorable evening that puts the Blood and Gold at the top of Group D.

From the opening whistle, Espérance displayed their ambition. The players, cautious yet enterprising, took control of the game. In the 10th minute, Belaïli set the tone with a powerful strike that was narrowly saved by Egyptian goalkeeper Shenawy. This early warning galvanised the Blood and Gold, who continued to press despite a high tempo and a well-organized opposition defense.

A setback came in the 27th minute with the injury of Roger Aholou, replaced by Onuche Ogbelu. But this unforeseen event did not disrupt the Blood and Gold's plans. In the 36th minute, Youcef Belaïli, in true maestro fashion, produced an individual moment of brilliance. Dribbling through the Egyptian defense, he found himself one-on-one with the goalkeeper before firing an unstoppable shot into the net, giving Espérance the lead (1-0).

In stoppage time of the first half, Espérance doubled their advantage. Served perfectly by Bouchniba, Rodrigues saw his attempt saved by Shenawy, but Mokwana was on hand to tap in the rebound and score the second goal in a raucous atmosphere (45+3). At half-time, Espérance were deservedly leading 2-0.

Returning from the break, Pyramids FC sought to get back into the game by applying intense pressure from the outset. However, the Blood and Gold's defense, led by Mohamed Amine Tougaï, remained solid and well-organized. Despite this Egyptian territorial dominance, the Blood and Gold managed to intelligently protect their lead while remaining threatening on the counter-attack.

In the 64th minute, Rodrigues tested Shenawy again, without success. Late in the game, the Blood and Gold nearly extended their lead. From a corner, Tougaï headed powerfully, but the Egyptian goalkeeper produced another fine save to divert the ball. Despite some late Egyptian attempts, Espérance held on to their advantage until the final whistle.

With this convincing victory, Espérance de Tunis claim sole possession of the top spot in Group D, sending a clear message to their opponents. The Blood and Gold collective shone through their cohesion, attacking efficiency, and defensive discipline. The ever-present supporters played their role as the 12th man, creating an exceptional atmosphere throughout the match.

The men in red and yellow can approach the rest of the competition with confidence. Congratulations to the entire team for a successful performance and to all the fans for their unwavering support.

EST lineup: Memmiche, Bouchniba, Ben Hamida (c), Jelassi, Tougaï, Aholou (Ogbelu 29'), Tka (Ayeb 85'), Konaté (Azouni 79'), Mokwana (Bouguerra 85'), Belaïli (Maâcha 79') and Rodrigues.
Booked: Memmiche.

Groupe D Standings