Super Cup

EST vs. ST: (2 - 0) Esperance clinches Super Cup


Esperance de Tunis wins the 2023-2024 Tunisian Super Cup. (Photo est.org.tn)
Esperance de Tunis wins the 2023-2024 Tunisian Super Cup. (Photo est.org.tn)

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Esperance Sportive de Tunis added another trophy to their collection, defeating Stade Tunisien 2-0 at the Radès Stadium to win the 2023-2024 Tunisian Super Cup. A well-deserved victory after a controlled performance by the Blood and Gold, who made the decisive breakthrough in the second half.

The opening minutes of the match were marked by caution from both sides. Until the 25th minute, clear-cut chances were scarce, as both teams were defensively well-organized.

Esperance created the first dangerous opportunity in the 30th minute when Youcef Belaïli was fouled on the edge of the box, but the expected free-kick was not given, with the referee playing advantage to no avail. Shortly after, Mokwana, in a prime position to open the scoring, missed the target (38'). In quick succession, Belaïli set up Jabri with an excellent pass, but Stade Tunisien goalkeeper Atef Dkhili intervened first (39').

The Blood and Gold thought they had taken the lead just before halftime when Belaïli found the net in added time, but his goal was disallowed by VAR for a marginal offside (45'+2). Thus, the teams went into the break with a goalless draw.

Upon resumption, Esperance intensified their pressure and created an early controversial moment: a handball by Mejri in the box was clearly visible on screen, but the referee waved away penalty appeals (47').

Esperance finally broke the deadlock in the 59th minute. On a swift counter-attack, Jabri intelligently played in the unmarked Mokwana, who finished calmly to make it 1-0.

Despite another denied penalty appeal in the 75th minute for a foul on Bouzaïène, Reghecampf's men continued to push for a second goal. The lively Mokwana attempted to set up Sasse in the 83rd minute, but Dkhili made a crucial save.

Belaïli sealed the victory for his team in the 84th minute. Played in by Ben Hamida, the Algerian international shifted onto his right foot and fired a powerful low shot past the helpless goalkeeper (2-0).

At the final whistle, Esperance could savor a logical and deserved victory. This 2023-2024 Tunisian Super Cup title rewards the efforts of the Blood and Gold and adds another line to the club's illustrious history.

A reassuring performance for Esperance fans, who will continue their season with ambition, determined to chase further success. Kudos to the players and staff for this fine victory!

EST Lineup: Memmiche, Ben Ali (Bouzaïène 68'), Ben Hamida(c), Jelassi, Tougaï, Guennichi (Azouni 88'), Tka (Jebali 88'), Konaté (Sasse 70'), Mokwana, Belaïli, and Jabri (Smiri 70').