Etoile Sportive du Sahel to Travel to Guinea for Confederations Cup Clash Despite Concerns Over Ebola
Despite objections from Horoya and a request for a change in venue, Tunisian club Etoile Sportive du Sahel will go ahead with their Confederations Cup round of 16 match in Guinea. The match, which was initially set to take place in Conakry, will now proceed as planned, with the Tunisian side preparing to travel to Guinea this week.
Etoile Sportive du Sahel’s management had initially expressed concerns over the safety of playing in Conakry due to the ongoing Ebola outbreak in the region. The club had hoped to have the match relocated to a safer location, fearing the health risks posed by the virus. However, despite these concerns, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has not agreed to the request for a venue change.
The EST delegation is scheduled to fly to Casablanca today before continuing on to Guinea for the first leg of their tie, which will be played this Sunday in Conakry. The club’s leadership had previously indicated they would seek a change in the venue for the match, but it appears the request has not been granted by the governing body.
Abdesslam Dhaifallah, the editor-in-chief of sports at Tunisian radio station Mosaique FM, confirmed the club’s concerns, noting that “Étoile du Sahel wants to contact CAF to request the relocation of its first-leg match scheduled for Conakry because of the Ebola fever.”
The decision to proceed with the match in Guinea has raised concerns about the safety of both players and officials, given the ongoing health crisis in the region. However, the team is now focused on the upcoming encounter as they prepare for what promises to be a crucial fixture in their continental campaign.
After the first leg, Etoile Sportive du Sahel will look to secure a safe location for the return match, with the club exploring options for a suitable venue before the second leg.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding the venue, Etoile Sportive du Sahel, known for their star-studded lineup, will be looking to put concerns aside and focus on the match as they aim to advance further in the Confederation Cup.