Espérance Sportive de Tunis will play their CAF Champions League group-stage opener at a half-capacity Hamadi Agrebi Stadium in Rades on Saturday as the Tunisian side welcomes Stade Malien for the first match of Group D.
Club officials confirmed that the venue will see a limited attendance, with the 20,000 season-ticket holders forming the core of the crowd.
An additional 10,000 tickets have been made available for general sale, ensuring a moderate turnout for the opening fixture of the group campaign.
The North African giants begin their continental journey with the expectation of a strong home performance, yet the controlled attendance reflects broader organisational decisions surrounding crowd management for early-stage matches.
Despite the reduced numbers, the atmosphere is expected to remain lively as supporters return to continental action in Rades.
Kick-off is scheduled for 17:00 local time, setting the stage for Espérance’s first examination in a group that promises tight competition.
Stade Malien, a side known for resilience and discipline on the African circuit, will be looking to challenge the hosts and set the tone for their own campaign.
Espérance enter the match under pressure to begin strongly, with group points at a premium in the opening round.
As the club seeks to reassert its continental credentials, home advantage—even at half capacity—could prove decisive in their push for an early lead in the standings.
