CAF Champions League: Espérance de Tunis Confident Ahead of Crucial Clash with Al-Merrikh
Espérance de Tunis are preparing for a decisive encounter this Sunday as they host Sudanese side Al-Merrikh in the second leg of the CAF Champions League round of 16. Trailing by just one goal from the first leg, the Tunisian giants remain in a strong position to overturn the deficit and book their place in the group stage of Africa’s premier club competition.
Known as the Blood and Gold, Espérance will count on home advantage at the Stade Olympique de Radès as they look to continue their continental campaign. A packed crowd is expected to spur the team on in what promises to be a tense and high-stakes match.
However, the Tunisian outfit is contending with some fitness concerns ahead of the clash. According to gnet.tn, several key players have been dealing with physical issues over the past week.
Midfielder Houcine Ragued, who was forced off with an injury during Espérance’s recent league match against AS Djerba, has resumed training with the squad — a promising sign for head coach José Anigo. Arbi Jaber, who was rested earlier this week, also returned to full training on Thursday.
Goalkeeper Moez Ben Cherifia, a regular starter, is reportedly training normally alongside his fellow keepers Ali Jemal and Sami Helal, suggesting no concerns between the posts.
In central defence, however, there are still some question marks. Mohamed Ali Yaâkoubi has not yet rejoined full training and is limited to running exercises. He was joined by fellow defender Chamseddine Dhaouadi, who is easing back into training following an injury sustained while on international duty during Tunisia’s recent friendly against China.
Despite these setbacks, Espérance remains confident. The squad’s depth and experience on the continental stage could prove decisive as they seek to overturn Al-Merrikh’s narrow advantage and move one step closer to reclaiming African glory.
With everything to play for, Sunday’s showdown will test Espérance’s resolve, fitness, and title ambitions — but the Tunisian side will know that a strong performance at home could be enough to propel them into the group stage of the CAF Champions League.
