Despite several key absences, Espérance Sportive de Tunis delivered the essential on Saturday night in Ouagadougou. The Blood and Gold earned a precious 1-0 away victory against Rahimo FC of Burkina Faso, in the first leg of the CAF Champions League second preliminary round. A solid result that gives the Tunisian champions a clear edge before the return leg in Radès next week.

With no fewer than six players sidelined due to injury, the Esperantists approached the match with caution. The opening minutes were dominated by the home side, who created two early chances (8’ and 11’). Rahimo’s lively start, however, was contained by a well-organized Tunisian defense led by goalkeeper Ben Saïd.

Gradually, Espérance began to settle and create danger on the counter. Boualia came close with a curling shot well saved by the Burkinabé goalkeeper in the 16th minute. Though the team showed patience and tactical discipline, the lack of sharpness in the final third remained visible.

The breakthrough came just before halftime. On a precise cross from Tka, Guenichi flicked the ball with his head toward Danho Séké, who finished with a perfect diving header at the far post (45’). A timely goal that gave Espérance a crucial lead heading into the break (0–1).

In the second half, Rahimo pushed forward in search of an equalizer, forcing Espérance to defend deep and rely on counter-attacks. The Blood and Gold could have doubled the score in the 83rd minute when Boualia missed a golden opportunity in front of an empty net after Diakité had drawn the goalkeeper out. In the dying moments, Ben Saïd produced a decisive save to keep his side ahead (90’).

The final whistle confirmed a hard-fought but well-deserved victory for Espérance. The absence of a creative playmaker like Youcef Belaïli was felt, especially in building attacking rhythm and creating clear chances, but the team’s collective discipline and resilience made the difference.

With this important away win, Espérance take a strong step toward qualification for the group stage. The return leg in Radès next week will be decisive, and the Blood and Gold will look to seal their place among Africa’s elite.

Congratulations to our players for this valuable victory, and see you in Radès for the return leg!

EST Lineup: Ben Saïd, Keita, Elaifi, Guenichi, Jelassi, Tka(c), Ogbelu, Jebali (Derbali 73'), Boualia (Bouchniba 86'), Konaté and Danho (Diakité 73').
Booking: Keita.