Espérance de Tunis are in South Africa for a key fixture! After a long journey that began on Saturday, including a stopover in Dubai, the Blood and Gold delegation finally arrived in Pretoria on Sunday, ready to face the challenge against Mamelodi Sundowns in the quarter-final first leg of the CAF Champions League.

This clash is a rematch of a thrilling semi-final played last season, which went the way of the Blood and Gold. However, this time, an intriguing element adds spice to the fixture: Miguel Cardoso, who was in the Espérance dugout during that victory, is now at the helm of the South African club. He will therefore face his former team, but with the objective of seeking revenge.

It's also a special match for Espérance's new coach, Maher Kanzari. Newly appointed as head coach of the first team, he will make his debut in the Champions League dugout with a major task: securing a positive result from Loftus Versfeld Stadium. To achieve this, he has selected a squad of 23 players, determined to shine on the continental stage. The squad is: Memmiche, Debchi, Ben Saïd, Jelassi, Bouchniba, Tougaï, Ben Hamida, Ben Mohamed, Bouzaïène, Koudhaï, Derbali, Tka, Sasse, Ogbelu, Konaté, Guennichi, Jebali, Hamrouni, Rodrigues, Belaïli, Jabri, Mokwana and Diakité.

The backdrop to this clash is made even more special by the fact that Espérance can count on considerable support. For several days, Pretoria has witnessed the arrival of hundreds of typically loyal Blood and Gold supporters, there to cheer on their team in a festive and friendly atmosphere. This enthusiasm has earned the admiration and respect of the South Africans.

This quarter-final is shaping up to be a true final before the final, pitting two sides that have already written significant chapters in African and world football history. The stakes are high, and intensity is guaranteed.

We wish every success to our valiant Blood and Gold in this quest for African glory!