Espérance de Tunis Reflects on CAF Champions League Exit: Blame, Regrets, and a Look Ahead
Espérance de Tunis’s surprising exit from the CAF Champions League at the round of 16 stage has left the Tunisian giants with much to ponder. Despite securing a 2-1 victory over Sudan’s Al Merreikh in the second leg, their earlier 0-1 defeat in Khartoum proved decisive, ending their streak of five consecutive appearances in the Champions League group stage.
Speaking on the Stade Attounseya program, manager Zied Tlemceni candidly assessed the team’s situation and their premature departure from Africa’s premier club competition.
“Every club goes through cycles,” Tlemceni noted. “After key players like Darragi, Msakni, and Traoui left, the team has undergone changes. We had a tough start to the season and have now exited the Champions League. There are shortcomings in some positions.”
He also addressed controversial refereeing decisions that marred the tie:
“We must not forget what happened in the first leg. CAF appointed what I can only describe as a ‘home’ referee for the first leg and a stricter one for the return match. Without the penalty against us in the first leg, we would have qualified.”
Despite the disappointment, Tlemceni urged caution against viewing the situation as entirely bleak:
“This does not mean we are perfect, but neither should we say everything is doom and gloom. We are currently leading the domestic league and will compete in the CAF Confederation Cup at a high level.”
Looking ahead, the manager emphasized the need for reinforcements to compete at the highest level in Africa:
“The current squad can do the job domestically, but to truly make an impact in the Champions League, we need to recruit. This elimination will not hinder our plans.”
As Espérance de Tunis shifts focus to the CAF Confederation Cup and their domestic campaign, the club faces a crucial period of rebuilding and reflection — seeking to regain their continental stature while maintaining dominance at home.
