Espérance de Tunis claimed a crucial derby win over Club Africain (1-2) this evening to edge closer to the Tunisian championship title. In a tense match marred by incidents, the Blood and Gold displayed clinical finishing to secure victory and move five points clear of second-placed US Monastir.

From the opening minutes, the Blood and Gold set the tone by dominating possession and creating chances. Their reward arrived as early as the 3rd minute when Yan Sasse, set up by Rodrigo Rodrigues, opened the scoring with a neat finish (0-1). Twenty-three minutes later, Rodrigues doubled the lead himself from a clever Sasse pass (0-2).

Club Africain did try to fight back, most notably through Hamdi Laâbidi's effort that was repelled by the crossbar (29th), but Espérance managed the game with control, relying on a solid defense and an excellent Memmiche in goal.

The second half was more disjointed and marked by incidents in the Club Africain stands, which led to two stoppages of play of around 30 minutes. Despite these disruptions, Espérance held on to their advantage.

In the dying minutes, Club Africain was awarded a controversial penalty for a soft foul by Ayeb on Amri. Eduwo converted the spot-kick, reducing the deficit to 1-2 (90+10'). However, this late goal proved to be nothing more than a consolation as Espérance claimed a precious victory that takes them a big step closer to the title.

With this win, Espérance de Tunis extends their lead to five points over second-placed US Monastir. Just one point from their remaining two matches will be enough for the Blood and Gold to secure their 33rd Tunisian championship title. Club Africain, meanwhile, remain rooted to the bottom of the table.

EST Lineup: Memmiche, Bouchniba (Derbali 90'+24), Ben Hamida, Meriah, Tougaî, Aholou, Chaâlali(c), Tka (Ayeb 90'+4), Sasse (Ghacha 90'+4), Bouguerra (Ben Ali 79') and Rodrigues (Ben Hammouda 90'+24).

Yellow cards: Ben Hamida, Chaâlali, Memmiche.