Former Espérance de Tunis goalkeeper Moez Ben Cherifia has admitted it will be difficult for him to watch his former side’s upcoming clash against Al Ahly in the quarterfinals of the CAF Champions League.
The Tunisian giants have been drawn against the Egyptian powerhouse in what is widely regarded as one of African football’s most intense rivalries. The first leg of the tie is scheduled for March 13 or 14, with Al Ahly travelling to Tunis to face Esperance at the Stade de Radès, before the return leg on March 20 or 21 at the Cairo International Stadium.
Reflecting on the matchup, Ben Cherifia described encounters between the two sides as uniquely demanding, regardless of form or perceived strength.
“From my experience, Esperance versus Al Ahly is always special. It doesn’t matter who is stronger or weaker,” he said. “You play two matches—one in Radès and the other in Egypt—and I truly wish Esperance the best of luck. This time, though, it will be very difficult for me to watch the games on television.”
Ben Cherifia faced Al Ahly 14 times during his career with Esperance across the Champions League and Confederation Cup, recording two wins, eight draws and four defeats. He conceded 20 goals in those encounters and managed just three clean sheets, underlining the difficulty of the fixture.
