Despite a delayed kickoff and a few tense moments off the pitch, Espérance de Tunis delivered a commanding performance in Ben Guerdane this afternoon, defeating the hosts 3-0 in the 2025 Tunisian Cup semi-final. A dominant display from start to finish, the Blood and Gold proved once again why they remain a force to be reckoned with.

The match began over 20 minutes late, but Espérance wasted no time getting into gear. After an early warning shot from Ben Guerdane’s Iyed Belouafi in the 7th minute, Espérance responded strongly. Ogbelu unleashed a powerful long-range effort that was parried by the goalkeeper, and Jebali’s follow-up struck the post just moments later (8’).

Just minutes later, the breakthrough came: a slick one-two between Jebali and Belaïli saw the latter finish coolly through the goalkeeper’s legs to make it 1-0 (11’). Another close chance followed almost immediately, with Jabri nearly doubling the lead in similar fashion, only to be denied by a fine save (13’).

Espérance controlled possession and dictated the pace, though clear chances became scarce around the half-hour mark. The team came alive again in the 36th minute as Yan Sasse squandered two great chances in quick succession, followed by another strong effort from Belaïli that was tipped wide by Farhati (37’). The first half ended with Espérance firmly on top, though the narrow scoreline didn’t reflect their superiority.

Another delay preceded the start of the second half, this time lasting 15 minutes, but it didn’t slow down the Sang et Or. Sasse hit the post after a brilliant through-ball from Jebali (52’), and Jabri miscontrolled at the decisive moment just seconds later.

Persistence finally paid off in the 68th minute: Jebali once again played the architect, feeding Sasse with a clever ball. The Brazilian took a deft touch and calmly slotted past the keeper to double the lead (0-2).

As the clock ticked down, the intensity eased slightly, though Espérance continued to probe. Belaïli dazzled in the 86th minute with a solo dribble through the defense, only to miss the target from close range.

The final word belonged to Rodrigues. Deep into stoppage time (90+2’), Belaïli split the defense with a precise pass, and Rodrigues raced through to fire a low shot past the keeper, making it 3-0 and sealing a well-deserved qualification.

This was a mature and focused performance from Espérance, overcoming adverse conditions and showing mental and tactical superiority. With goals, flair, and defensive discipline, the team has booked a place in Sunday’s final at Radès against Stade Tunisien.

One last hurdle remains – and Espérance are ready.

EST Line-up: Ben Saïd, Ben Ali (Bouchniba 85'), Ben Hamida(c), Jelassi, Tougaï, Guennichi, Ogbelu (Dhaou 79'), Jebali (Derbali 70'), Sasse (Mokwana 70'), Belaïli and Jabri (Rodrigues 79').
Booked: Ogbelu, Guennichi.