CAFCL: Espérance Sportive de Tunis secure commanding win over Rahimo FC

Espérance Sportive de Tunis confidently booked their place in the CAF Champions League group stage with a 3–0 win over Burkina Faso’s Rahimo FC, continuing their decade-long run at this phase of the competition.

Aiming to reclaim their influence on the continent, Espérance entered the match with a squad that mixed familiar faces and fresh responsibility.

Among the starters was Algerian recruit Kouceila Boualia — the only recent signing named in the initial line-up.

Veteran winger Youcef Belaïli began the evening on the bench, while centre-back Mohamed Amine Tougaï remained absent as he continues to recover from injury.

Boualia, who only joined from JS Kabylie in late August, delivered the game’s standout moment in the first half.

After a measured spell of pressure from the Tunisian champions, the Algerian swung a precise cross into the penalty area in the 33rd minute.

Midfielder Ghaith Jellassi reacted sharply, finishing smartly to hand the hosts a well-deserved lead at the Stade Hammadi Agrebi.

JELASSI ON AIR ! ✈️

Boualia. 🎯

1-0 pic.twitter.com/UD6xnSgA92

— Espérance Time (@EsperanceTime_) October 26, 2025

Despite the breakthrough, Espérance rarely reached full fluidity in their play.

Occasional misplaced passes and limited tempo allowed Rahimo to stay disciplined in defence.

But while the performance lacked consistency, the scoreline continued to grow.

Espérance later added two more goals, ensuring a comfortable advantage and ultimately sealing progression with authority.

Belaïli joined the contest just past the hour mark and almost made an immediate impact.

Showcasing the flair that has defined much of his career, he produced an inventive assist-like pass to set up striker Konaté.

However, with only the goalkeeper to beat, the forward failed to convert what appeared to be a perfect opportunity to extend the margin.

Boualia’s involvement, though not constant, earned praise from supporters who have been eager to see new signings contribute quickly on the continental stage.

His key role in the opening goal highlighted his attacking instincts and willingness to take initiative on an evening when chances did not always come freely.

Le caviar de Belaïli pour Konaté… mais ce dernier rate le face-à-face avec le gardien pic.twitter.com/Bd4VdFQoCV

— Espérance Time (@EsperanceTime_) October 26, 2025

The final whistle confirmed Espérance’s 10th consecutive appearance in the group stage — a statistic that underscores their firm presence among Africa’s elite clubs.

Yet, while the result brought celebration, the broader performance left room for reflection.

To mount a genuine challenge for the trophy they have long craved to lift again, improvements will be required in cohesion, sharpness, and finishing efficiency as the competition intensifies.

Still, with qualification secured and several key players returning to fitness, Espérance have a foundation on which to build — and a new contributor in Boualia already demonstrating he could play a pivotal role in their ambitions this season.