Espérance de Tunis suffered their first league defeat of the season this afternoon, losing 1-0 to Stade Tunisien at the Hédi Ennifer Stadium on Matchday 5 of Ligue 1. Despite dominating territorially in the second half, the Blood and Gold never managed to break through against a disciplined and determined opponent.

The game began in a scrappy fashion, with plenty of duels in midfield. The first real chance for Espérance came from a Youcef Belaïli free kick aimed at Tougaï, but the ST goalkeeper was quick off his line to intercept (12’). Moments later, Belaïli won a clear penalty after being brought down by Ndaw in the box (16’), only for VAR to overturn the decision due to a foul at the start of the move.

That incident seemed to galvanize the home side. In the 29th minute, Amadou Ndiaye struck the post with a powerful effort. The breakthrough finally came in the 40th minute: after an initial save by Ben Saïd, Mohamed Amine Khemissi latched onto the rebound and fired home the only goal of the match (1-0).

At the restart, head coach Maher Kanzari tried to shake things up by introducing Boualia and Konaté (46’). The impact was immediate: Belaïli created a good chance inside the box (48’), followed by an attempt from Ben Hamida (51’). But Stade Tunisien maintained their high pressing game, which continued to disrupt Espérance’s build-up play.

The best chances for Espérance came around the hour mark: Jabri had two efforts in quick succession, but Farhati produced fine saves to keep his side in front (65’). Time ticked away with a series of corners and long-range attempts (80’, 85’). Deep into stoppage time, Ben Hamida thought he had equalized, but a Stade Tunisien defender cleared off the line at the last second (90’+9).

This narrow 1-0 defeat marks a setback for Espérance, who had been unbeaten until now. The Blood and Gold dominated the second half but lacked sharpness in front of goal, paying the price for a first period where the opponent’s pressing and the tricky pitch made life difficult.

This setback should serve as a wake-up call. Espérance will soon have the chance to bounce back, rediscover their usual efficiency, and reaffirm their ambitions both in the league and on the continental stage.

EST Lineup: Ben Saïd, Ben Ali (Bouassida 87'), Ben Hamida, Meriah(c), Tougaï, Ogbelu (Konaté 46'), Guennichi (Tka 77'), Jebali (Dhaou 77'), Sasse (Boualia 46'), Belaïli et Jabri.
Booking : Meriah, Belaïli, Guenichi, Ben Ali.