Bizertin pulled off a stunning 2-1 victory over league leaders Espérance in Matchday 21 of the Tunisian Ligue 1 on Saturday.
Despite the upset, Espérance are still top of the table with 45 points, while Bizertin climbs to 10th place with 20 points.
The match began with Bizertin showing no fear against the table toppers, and they took a surprise lead in the 25th minute.
Nourreddine Ayindi found the back of the net, punishing Espérance’s defensive lapse. The early goal set the tone for a fiercely contested encounter.
Espérance, determined to maintain their dominance in the league, came out stronger in the second half.
Their pressure paid off in the 49th minute when new signing Chihab Jebali scored the equalizer, breathing life into the visitors’ hopes of securing at least a point.
However, the game took a dramatic turn in the dying moments. Espérance suffered a major setback when Qossay Smiri was sent off in the 87th minute, leaving them with 10 men.
The situation worsened deep into stoppage time when Khalil Khenissi also received a red card in the 100th minute.
To add to their woes, Bizertin was awarded a penalty, and Abdo Sidi made no mistake, converting the spot-kick to seal a dramatic victory.
The unexpected defeat for Espérance opens up the title race as the season heads into its final stretch.
