Espérance de Tunis are set to receive a major boost ahead of the second leg of their CAF Champions League semi-final against TP Mazembe, scheduled for this Saturday in Lubumbashi. After securing a narrow but valuable 1–0 victory at home in the first leg, the Tunisian champions are reinforcing their squad at the perfect moment, with several injured players now declared fit and ready for selection.
The Blood and Gold know that nothing is settled yet. A single goal separates them from their Congolese opponents, and playing at the intimidating Kamalondo Stadium is always a daunting challenge. TP Mazembe are renowned for their strength on home soil, where the atmosphere, intensity, and pressure can overwhelm even the most experienced teams. Fully aware of what awaits them in Lubumbashi, Espérance have welcomed the return of five important players who were unavailable or limited during the first encounter.
Defenders Mohamed Ali Yaakoubi, Houcine Rabii, and Sameh Derbali have all recovered from their respective injuries and have rejoined the group in training. Their availability significantly strengthens the defensive options for coach Moïne Chaâbani, who will be keen to rely on experience, discipline, and tactical intelligence to resist Mazembe’s attacking waves. The return of these defenders allows Espérance to rotate and adjust their back line more effectively, an essential factor when facing a side known for its physical power and direct football.
In addition to the defensive reinforcements, Nigerian striker Junior Lokosa is also back in contention. His return offers Espérance an extra attacking option, both to relieve pressure and to exploit spaces left by a Mazembe side that will be forced to push forward in search of goals. Lokosa’s pace, movement, and finishing ability could prove crucial, whether as a starter or as an impact substitute, especially in a match where an away goal could dramatically shift the balance of the tie.
Goalkeeper Rami Jeridi has likewise recovered and is available for selection. His comeback adds depth and competition in the goalkeeping department, providing reassurance to the coaching staff ahead of what is expected to be a high-intensity encounter. In a stadium where shots rain in from all angles and aerial duels are constant, having a fully fit and experienced goalkeeper is a considerable advantage.
These five returns represent a timely reinforcement for Espérance, who are only 90 minutes away from a second consecutive Champions League final. However, the mission remains delicate. TP Mazembe, backed by their home crowd, will throw everything forward to overturn the deficit. Espérance must therefore combine defensive solidity, tactical discipline, and intelligent game management if they are to protect their slim advantage.
With a strengthened squad, renewed confidence from the first-leg victory, and the experience of having already conquered Africa, Espérance de Tunis travel to Lubumbashi determined to complete the job. But against a club of Mazembe’s stature, on their own turf, the Tunisians know that nothing less than a near-perfect performance will be enough to secure qualification.
