Champions League: Esperance has forgotten the Super Cup, this is a new challenge

The quarter-finals of the CAF Champions League are set to take place on February 28 and 29, featuring high-stakes clashes across the continent. One of the most anticipated matches sees Zamalek host Espérance de Tunis in Cairo, just two weeks after the Egyptian club defeated the Tunisian side in the CAF Super Cup in Doha. The Super Cup result adds an extra layer of tension to this encounter, as Espérance will be eager to assert themselves and avoid a repeat disappointment.

Historically, Zamalek has had the upper hand in head-to-head encounters, which raises questions about whether the Tunisian champions can overturn the trend. Espérance de Tunis, aiming for a third consecutive continental trophy, faces the challenge of maintaining composure and tactical discipline to prevent jeopardizing their chances before the return leg at their home ground in Rades. The first-leg result will be crucial, as any setback could make qualification for the semi-finals significantly more difficult.

On the eve of the match, Majdi Traoui, assistant coach of Espérance de Tunis, spoke about the team’s preparation and mindset. He emphasized that the Super Cup defeat is behind them and that the upcoming Champions League encounter represents a fresh challenge. “This is a new challenge, a different competition. The defeat suffered in the CAF Super Cup against the same opponent is behind us. We’re not dwelling on it, but we’ve learned our lesson. We’ll be facing a strong team. Contrary to what’s being said in the media, we’ve never underestimated Zamalek. On Friday, we’ll need to be at our best, both physically and mentally, to hope for a positive result and avoid complicating the return leg in Rades,” Traoui stated.

Espérance will need to combine tactical rigor with mental resilience to counter Zamalek’s strengths, particularly in front of their home fans. Controlling the midfield, maintaining defensive solidity, and capitalizing on scoring opportunities will be essential if the Tunisian side hopes to secure a favorable result before the return leg. The team’s experience in continental competitions provides confidence, but the intensity of a quarter-final tie requires maximum focus and discipline.

Meanwhile, Zamalek enters the match buoyed by their recent Super Cup victory and the advantage of playing at home. The Egyptian side will aim to exploit any lapses from Espérance and establish control early in the game. Home support, combined with tactical planning, could prove decisive in shaping the first-leg outcome.

This quarter-final clash is not only a test of skill and strategy but also of mental fortitude, as both teams seek to gain an advantage that could determine progression to the semi-finals. Fans can expect a highly competitive match, with each side motivated to assert dominance and set the tone for the decisive second leg in Rades.