Youcef Belaïli delivered a moment of brilliance to earn Espérance Sportive de Tunis a vital 1-0 win over Los Angeles FC in their second Group D outing at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup in the United States.
The Algerian international struck in the 70th minute to seal Espérance’s first three points of the tournament, capping off a lively performance filled with invention and attacking flair.
His impact proved decisive, not only in delivering the win but in reviving the Tunisian side’s hopes of reaching the knockout stages.
Belaïli, ever the creative force, had already impressed in the opener against Brazil’s Flamengo.
Against LAFC, he once again dictated the rhythm of Espérance’s attacks, carving open spaces and teasing the American defence with his movement and vision.
In the first half, he came within inches of scoring when through on goal, narrowly missing the target.
The turning point arrived in the second half when Belaïli, perfectly positioned in the penalty area, clinically finished past the LAFC goalkeeper to hand his side the lead.
His instinct and composure were on full display, as was the experience that continues to make him the heartbeat of the Tunisian club.
Despite his heroics, Belaïli’s evening was not without frustration.
In the 52nd minute, he went to ground under pressure in the box and was shown a yellow card for simulation—his second booking of the tournament.
The suspension means he will miss Espérance’s decisive third group game against Chelsea.
As the match drew to a close, LAFC were handed a lifeline when they were awarded a penalty deep into stoppage time.
But Espérance goalkeeper Bechir Ben Said produced a match-saving stop to deny Denis Bouanga and preserve the narrow victory.
Voted Man of the Match, Belaïli’s influence has been central to Espérance’s campaign so far.
His performances have drawn widespread praise, with commentators hailing the 33-year-old as a “Brazilian artist” for his flair and finesse on the ball.
Though he will be forced to watch from the stands in the upcoming showdown with Chelsea, Belaïli has already stamped his authority on this Club World Cup.
With three points now on the board, Espérance remain in contention—and much of that is thanks to their Algerian maestro.
