The traditional pre-match press conference was held this morning in Dar es Salaam, on the eve of Esperance de Tunis’ crucial Group Stage encounter against Simba SC, counting for Matchday 4 of the CAF Champions League. Head coach Maher Kanzari and defender Mohamed-Aziz Koudhaï addressed the media, outlining the team’s mindset ahead of this key fixture.

Speaking first, Maher Kanzari underlined the importance of the moment as the group stage enters its return phase. “We are now starting the second half of the group stage. At this point, every team is fighting to defend its chances until the very end in the three remaining matches. Every single point becomes extremely valuable,” the Esperance coach explained, highlighting the growing intensity of the competition.

Kanzari also reaffirmed his team’s clear ambitions while showing full respect for the opposition. “We have come here determined to produce a strong performance and fight for the three points. We are fully focused and aware that we are facing a big and respectable team, with a strong reputation in African football and a massive fan base,” he stated.

Aware of the challenging environment awaiting his players at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, Kanzari did not underestimate the task ahead. “It will not be an easy match for us, nor for our opponents. But I hope we can deliver a great performance and return home with a victory,” he concluded with confidence and realism.

Alongside him, defender Mohamed-Aziz Koudhaï echoed the same sense of determination, stressing the importance of the match for both teams. “This is a very important game for us and for Simba as well. We are 100% ready for tomorrow,” he said, reflecting a squad fully committed to the challenge.

Koudhaï also expressed his hope that Esperance would deliver a complete performance and be rewarded with a positive result. “I hope we will be on a great day and have the necessary efficiency to secure the three points, which will be crucial for what comes next,” he added, before ending on an ambitious note: “We no longer want to drop points, whether at home or away.”

Clear, confident and composed statements that reflect an Esperance side fully focused and determined to rise to the challenge, as the Blood and Gold prepare for a decisive away test in Dar es Salaam.