Tunisia’s FTF Appeals Commission overturns ES Sahel’s green carpet victory

The Tunisian Football Federation (FTF) Appeals Commission has ruled in favor of EGS Gafsa, reinstating the 1-1 draw from their Ligue 1 clash against ES Sahel.

This decision overturns a previous ruling that had awarded ES Sahel a 2-0 victory due to an administrative dispute.

Appeals Commission reinstates on-field result

The controversy began following the match between EGS Gafsa and ES Sahel on Matchday 13 of the Tunisian Ligue 1.

Although the match ended in a 1-1 draw, ES Sahel later filed a complaint, citing unpaid fines on the part of EGS Gafsa.

The National Professional Football League (LNFP) initially ruled in favor of ES Sahel, awarding them a 2-0 victory by default.

However, EGS Gafsa appealed the ruling, taking their case to the FTF’s National Appeals Commission.

After reviewing the case, the commission decided to overturn the LNFP’s decision and uphold the original match result.

As a result, ES Sahel sees its points tally reduced by two, while EGS Gafsa regains the single point earned from the draw.

Impact on the Ligue 1 standings

The ruling has a direct impact on the league standings, particularly in the race for the title and the battle to avoid relegation.

ES Sahel, previously tied for second place with 48 points, now drops to fourth with 46, falling behind US Monastir and Club Africain.

Meanwhile, EGS Gafsa, struggling at the bottom of the table, moves up to 16 points, though they remain in the relegation zone.

Updated Ligue 1 standings after the Appeals Commission Decision:

1. ES Tunis – 51 pts
2. US Monastir – 47 ptsA
3. Club Africain – 46 pts
4. ES Sahel – 46 pts
5. ES Zarzis – 44 pts
6. Stade Tunisien – 40 pts
7. CS Sfaxien – 32 pts
8. ES Métlaoui – 32 pts
9. Olympique de Béja – 28 pts
10. CA Bizertin – 23 pts
11. AS Soliman – 22 pts
12. JS Omrane – 21 pts
13. AS Gabès – 18 pts
14. US Ben Guerdane – 17 pts
15. EGS Gafsa – 16 pts
16. US Tataouine – 14 pts

A league shaped by off-field disputes

This ruling is yet another example of the administrative battles that frequently influence Tunisian football.

While clubs fight for points on the pitch, disputes over eligibility, regulations, and financial matters often play a decisive role in shaping the league table.

For ES Sahel, the decision is a setback in their pursuit of the Ligue 1 title.

Meanwhile, for EGS Gafsa, although they remain in the relegation zone, the restored point keeps their survival hopes alive as they continue their battle to remain in the top flight.