The curtain has fallen tonight at the Radès Stadium. Esperance de Tunis is out of the CAF Champions League, following a goalless draw (0-0) against Mamelodi Sundowns in the second leg of the quarterfinal. After the 1-0 defeat in Pretoria, the Blood and Gold needed a big performance to overturn the tie — but they came up short against a well-drilled and superior side.

Yet, before a ball was even kicked, hope and belief were alive and well in the stands. True to form, the Esperance supporters filled the stadium with songs, chants, and a stunning visual display. Their unwavering passion set the tone for what was meant to be a comeback night.

It nearly started perfectly. Just two minutes in, Youcef Belaïli whipped in a trademark free-kick that found Mohamed Amine Tougaï near the far post. The defender managed a somewhat scuffed shot with his foot, but it was still on target, forcing Sundowns keeper Ronwen Williams into a reflex save to deny him. Early nerves? Perhaps. But it was a sign that Esperance meant business.

Unfortunately, that early spark fizzled. As the game progressed, chances became scarce, and the battle moved to the midfield trenches. At the 36th minute, Belaïli floated in a dangerous cross with no one able to meet it — a missed opportunity that summed up the first half. Sundowns, calm and composed, stuck to their game plan. They held possession, waited for openings, and capitalized on errors.

And the errors came. In the 43rd minute, a poor clearance gave Ribeiro a chance to shoot wide. A minute later, Allende struck the crossbar after another defensive mishap. The warning signs were there. At halftime, it was clear: Sundowns were in control, and Esperance had yet to pose a real threat.

The second half brought changes and a glimmer of hope. Achref Jabri came on at the break for Rodrigues — and nearly became the hero. In the 63rd minute, he broke free and lofted a clever finish over Williams, sparking wild celebrations… that were abruptly silenced. The goal was ruled out for a marginal offside.

Esperance pushed forward, driven by desperation more than clarity. In the 85th minute, goalkeeper Ben Saïd kept the team alive with a crucial save. And deep into stoppage time (90’+8), Belaïli tried to snatch a miracle with a last-gasp strike, but once again, Williams stood firm.

Full time. 0-0. On aggregate, 1-0 to Sundowns, who progress to the semifinals. Over two legs, the South African side was better — tactically, technically, and mentally. Their qualification is deserved, and Esperance must accept that.

There will be time for analysis, for rebuilding, for reflection. The Blood and Gold must evolve if they wish to reclaim their continental crown. Prestige alone is not enough.

But amid the disappointment, one constant shone bright: the supporters. Tonight, they were flawless. Vocal, vibrant, and faithful to the end. They deserved more — and they will be the foundation on which next season’s dreams are rebuilt.

This chapter ends, but the story continues. Forever Esperance.

EST Line-up: Ben Saïd, Bouchniba, Ben Hamida(c), Jelassi, Tougaï, Ogbelu, Tka (Hamrouni 88'), Konaté (Jebali 46'), Sasse (Mokwana 63'), Belaïli et Rodrigues (Jabri 46').
Booked: Ogbelu.