Espérance Sportive de Tunis secured a narrow but valuable 1–0 victory over TP Mazembe in the first leg of the CAF Champions League semi-final, played at the Stade Olympique de Radès. In a tense and highly competitive encounter, the Tunisian side did just enough to take a slight advantage into the return leg, thanks to a decisive second-half goal from Youssef Belaïli.
The match began at a lively tempo, with Espérance looking to impose themselves early in front of their home supporters. TP Mazembe, renowned for their experience and resilience in continental competition, set up with a compact defensive shape, aiming to frustrate the hosts and exploit any counterattacking opportunities. Espérance enjoyed more possession in the opening period but initially struggled to break down the well-organized Congolese back line. Chances were limited, with most efforts coming from distance or set pieces that failed to seriously trouble goalkeeper Sylvain Gbohouo.
As the first half progressed, Espérance gradually increased the pressure. Belaïli, the former Angers winger, was particularly active, constantly seeking space on the flanks and attempting to destabilize the Mazembe defense with his dribbling and movement. Despite this, clear-cut opportunities remained rare, and the teams went into the halftime break locked at 0–0, with everything still to play for.
The breakthrough finally arrived six minutes after the restart. In the 51st minute, Belaïli once again caused problems down the left side before delivering a dangerous ball into the penalty area. Striker Taha Yassine Khenissi attempted to get a touch, but the ball ultimately evaded everyone and found its way into the side netting, sneaking past Gbohouo. The goal was officially credited to Belaïli, whose delivery and intent were decisive in breaking the deadlock. The stadium erupted as Espérance took the lead at a crucial moment in the tie.
Buoyed by the opening goal, Espérance pushed forward with greater confidence and intensity. Their attacking play became more fluid, and they began to create a series of opportunities. Belaïli continued to be a constant threat, linking play and driving his team forward, while the midfield increased the tempo and tried to stretch Mazembe’s defensive block. The Congolese side, now trailing, were forced to defend deeper, absorbing wave after wave of Tunisian attacks.
The task appeared to become even more complicated for Mazembe in the 72nd minute when Chongo was sent off after receiving a second yellow card. Reduced to ten men, the visitors found themselves under heavy pressure for the remainder of the match. Espérance took full control of possession and territory, launching numerous attacks in search of a second goal that would have significantly strengthened their position ahead of the return leg.
Despite their dominance and numerical advantage, Espérance were unable to convert their superiority into additional goals. The clearest chances fell late in the second half to Haythem Jouini, who twice found himself in promising positions but failed to apply the finishing touch. Each missed opportunity increased the tension, as Mazembe remained within touching distance of an equalizer that could have dramatically changed the complexion of the tie.
In the end, the final whistle confirmed a 1–0 victory for the club from Bab Souika. While the result gives Espérance a slight edge, it also leaves the semi-final finely balanced. The Tunisian champions will now have to travel to Lubumbashi on May 4, 2019, for what promises to be a very demanding second leg. Defending a one-goal lead away from home against a side as experienced and formidable as TP Mazembe will require discipline, character, and efficiency.
Espérance’s mission is clear: build on this hard-fought first-leg success, remain solid defensively, and seize any opportunity that arises. With qualification for the final at stake, the return match is set to be a true test of their continental ambitions.
