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Re : ASFAN vs. EST: (0 - 3) A solid away win in Niamey

ASFAN vs. EST: (0 - 3) A solid away win in Niamey

Abdramane Konaté provided two assists in the Blood and Gold's victory over Niger's ASFAN. (Photo est.org.tn)
 
Under scorching heat and on a pitch far from ideal, Espérance Sportive de Tunis handled their trip to Niger in the best possible way, claiming a 3-0 victory over AS Forces Armées this Sunday at the General Seyni Kountché Stadium in Niamey, in the first leg of the CAF Champions League 2025/2026 first preliminary round.

The Blood and Gold made a dream start. Just three minutes into the game, Konaté dribbled near the corner flag and delivered a fine cross to Boualia, who controlled calmly before slotting home to open the scoring (0-1). The early goal set the tone and gave Maher Kanzari’s men confidence.

ASFAN, however, soon responded. In the 25th minute, striker Aruna Moussa unleashed a powerful shot, but Ben Saïd pulled off a strong save to divert it for a corner. The hosts then grew into the game, troubling Espérance’s defense with quick forward plays, but their lack of accuracy in front of goal spared the visitors. At half-time, the Tunisians held onto their slim lead, already exhausted by the heat and difficult pitch conditions.

After the break, Espérance quickly reasserted control. In the 54th minute, Konaté found himself through on goal and unselfishly squared the ball to substitute Diakité, who tapped in to double the lead (0-2). Just minutes later, the Malian forward almost added another after dribbling past the goalkeeper, only to send his effort wide of the empty net.

From then on, the visitors managed the game wisely. With Boualia and Ben Hamida both forced off through injuries, the coaching staff chose not to take risks and canceled a planned attacking substitution. ASFAN still had a chance in the 84th minute when Abdoulaye’s cross-shot struck Ben Saïd’s crossbar. But Espérance immediately sealed the win two minutes later: Tougaï delivered a free-kick, and Diakité rose to hammer home his second of the night (0-3, 86’).

At the final whistle, the Blood and Gold could celebrate a commanding victory achieved despite the difficult conditions. With this clear advantage, Espérance head back to Radès for the return leg next Saturday in a comfortable position. A convincing performance that highlights the team’s strength and ambition to make a deep run in this year’s Champions League.

EST Lineup: Ben Saïd, Keita, Ben Hamida (Jelassi 75'), Meriah(c), Tougaï, Ogbelu (Guenichi 64'), Tka, Konaté, Sasse (Jebali 46'), Boualia (Elaifi 69') and Bouassida (Diakité 46').

Booking: Keita, Boualia.

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Dernière modification par E-S-Tunis.com_en (21-09-2025 19:37)