Hamdi Labidi has been declared fit and ready for Club Africain’s high-stakes derby encounter against Espérance Sportive de Tunis on Sunday, 20 April, as part of matchday 27 in the Tunisian Ligue 1.
The striker’s return from injury comes as a timely boost for head coach David Bettoni, who is seeking to field his strongest line-up for one of the most anticipated fixtures in Tunisian football.
Labidi, who has been recovering at the Parc A training facility, has now been given the green light by the medical team and is expected to be available for selection.
The 23-year-old centre forward has featured in 22 matches so far this season, netting five goals and providing two assists.
His physical presence and movement in the attacking third have made him a reliable asset in Club Africain’s campaign, and his comeback is likely to bolster their attacking options significantly.
Labidi enjoys a special place in the hearts of Club Africain supporters following his memorable contribution in a previous derby clash.
On 7 May 2023, with tensions running high and the match approaching its final moments, it was Labidi who stepped up with an 81st-minute strike to seal a dramatic 1-0 victory over Espérance.
The goal not only secured bragging rights in the capital but also etched his name into the club’s modern derby folklore.
That defining moment has since elevated his status among the fanbase, who will be hoping he can produce similar heroics this weekend as the two fierce rivals meet once again.
With Club Africain aiming to improve their league position and Espérance continuing their title push, the encounter promises to carry high stakes and added emotional weight.
The latest updates from the Club Africain camp suggest that the squad is in increasingly good health overall, as several injured players make their way back to full fitness.
For coach Bettoni, Labidi’s recovery is particularly significant, as it restores a vital component to his forward line at a critical juncture in the season.
All eyes will now turn to Sunday’s derby at the heart of Tunis, where Labidi’s return could prove decisive in a match that rarely lacks intensity or drama.
