The upcoming Ligue 1 fixture between US Ben Guerdane and Espérance de Tunis (ES Tunis), scheduled for the weekend of November 23-24, has sparked heated debate. ES Tunis has requested a postponement due to their CAF Champions League commitments, but their opponents have refused, citing fairness and adherence to the league’s schedule.
The dispute arises as ES Tunis prepares to face Mali’s Djoliba AC on November 26 in the opening match of the CAF Champions League group stage.
With less than 72 hours separating the two fixtures, ES Tunis argues that their ability to properly prepare would be severely hindered if the league match against Ben Guerdane is not rescheduled.
Clashing Statements
In a press release issued on their official Facebook page, ES Tunis expressed their concerns over the tight scheduling.
“Espérance Sportive de Tunis has informed the federation that the Champions League match on November 26 is critical.
Playing a league game less than 72 hours beforehand undermines our ability to prepare adequately for this important fixture,” the statement read.
However, US Ben Guerdane quickly issued a firm response, rejecting the request. Their statement, also posted on social media, emphasized their commitment to fairness and the integrity of the league.
“The Union Sportive de Ben Guerdane cordially asks the National Professional Football League to respect the date set for the 9th round of the championship on November 23 or 24.
This is necessary to safeguard our sporting rights and uphold the principle of fairness,” the club stated.
Broader Implications
This clash of interests highlights a recurring issue in Tunisian football, where fixture congestion often pits domestic commitments against continental obligations.
With the Tunisian Football Federation (FTF) consulting clubs on scheduling adjustments for the rest of the season, the debate underscores the challenges of balancing league fairness with the demands of international competition.
The ongoing “war of press releases” reflects the escalating tensions between the two clubs, with no resolution in sight as the proposed match date approaches.
The controversy could set a precedent for future scheduling disputes, further complicating the already strained relationship between clubs and the FTF.
What’s Next?
As both clubs hold firm in their positions, the ball is now in the court of the National Professional Football League and the FTF.
A decision will need to be made swiftly to either uphold the original schedule or accommodate ES Tunis’ request.
With stakes high for both teams, the outcome could significantly impact not only this season’s league standings but also Tunisian football’s broader reputation for managing such conflicts.
