The head coach of Esperance de Tunis, Maher Kanzari, praised his players on Monday night despite their 2-0 defeat to Brazilian club Flamengo in their opening match at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.
According to the coach, losing to a side with so much quality was not surprising.
“It was a tough match with strong competition. We were facing a big team with distinguished and well-known players,” Maher Kanzari said in his post-match interview.
He added, “We faced difficulties in the first half, but we were able to perform well in the second half and improve our level. The loss to Flamengo is not surprising, and despite the defeat, I am happy with the spirit and character the players showed on the field.
“I don’t blame anyone for the loss. Flamengo is not an easy team, and they have five or six players in the national team.”
After the defeat to Flamengo, Esperance will now prepare for their next Group D encounter against Los Angeles FC on Friday, June 20.
