CAF Confederation Cup: High-stakes second leg in Sousse as Étoile Sahel battle to rescue hopes

Étoile Sportive du Sahel face a decisive evening in Sousse on Sunday as they welcome Nairobi United for the second leg of their CAF Confederation Cup preliminary round tie, needing a dramatic turnaround to reach the competition’s group stage.

The match kicks off at 6:00 p.m. local time at the Stade Olympique, where the Tunisian side must overturn a 2–0 deficit from the first clash in Nairobi.

The task ahead is clear but far from simple. ES Sahel have endured a worrying run of form in recent weeks, with just one victory in their last five outings.

Defensive errors have been particularly costly, and any repeat against their Kenyan opponents could bring a swift end to their continental campaign.

To progress, Sahel must score at least twice while maintaining a flawless defensive performance — a requirement that leaves no margin for error.

Despite the urgency surrounding their situation, the Tunisian club can draw belief from their history in African competitions.

The Sousse crowd is expected to play its part, lifting a squad eager to reassert its reputation on the continental stage.

The responsibility will be shared among experienced leaders and emerging talents who now carry the burden of achieving a comeback that would restore optimism around the club.

Nairobi United, meanwhile, arrive in Tunisia full of momentum and confidence.

Their 2–0 victory in the opening leg offered more than just a scoreline advantage — it showcased a composed, disciplined team capable of exploiting opportunities with efficiency.

Unbeaten in their last five matches, they need only to avoid a heavy defeat to secure what would be a historic first appearance in the group stage of the tournament.

The Kenyan side approach the contest aware that a single away goal would significantly complicate matters for their opponents, forcing Sahel to chase an even wider margin.

Their strategy is likely to balance defensive caution with sharp counter-attacking play, aiming to frustrate the hosts while maintaining their lead.

With contrasting pressures shaping their approaches, both teams understand the magnitude of what is at stake: progression to the CAF Confederation Cup group phase and the sporting and financial rewards that accompany it.

How to follow the match

Supporters can watch the encounter live on beIN SPORTS, which holds the broadcast rights for the fixture.

Streaming coverage will also be available on platforms including Foot Mercato and Eurosport, offering fans multiple ways to follow every twist and turn of a tie that promises tension, emotion and a fierce battle for survival in Africa’s secondary club competition.