After a frustrating draw against Stade Malien when it entered the competition, Esperance de Tunis travels to Angola to face Petro Atletico, Saturday at 5:00 p.m., as part of the second day of group D. A match already decisive for the Sang et Or, shaken by absences and expected around the corner.
Hope in search of reaction
The opening of the African campaign did not live up to expectations for Espérance de Tunis. By conceding a disappointing 0-0 in Radès against Stade Malien, Bab Souika’s club immediately put itself under pressure in a group where every point will count.
The trip to Luanda is therefore of major importance to relaunch the dynamic and demonstrate that the poor performance of the first day was only an incident.
The Esperanto staff knows that the opposition against Petro Atletico constitutes one of the most delicate exits of this group phase, especially since the opponent approaches this meeting buoyed by its inaugural away victory against Simba (1-0), and benefiting from a wind of confidence which could weigh in the balance.
Tough choices for Maher Kanzari
As during their first appearance, the Sang et Or will present themselves in Angola diminished by several major absences. Youcef Belaïli, Yan Sasse and Ibrahim Keita all remain on the side, while Mohamed Amine Tougai, just recovered from injury and called up for selection for the Qatar 2025 Arab Cup, will not be on the trip.
This hemorrhage in the squad forces coach Maher Kanzari to rethink his plan, particularly on the offensive level where efficiency was sorely lacking during the previous match.
Petro Atletico, an opponent in form
Opposite, Petro Atletico appears to be one of the most difficult competitors to maneuver in Group D. The Angolan team, now accustomed to continental games, has a dense and technical squad, reinforced by individuals capable of turning a match around.
The team will also be able to count on the massive support of its public and on the positive dynamic brought by Tunisian assistant coach Anis Boussaidi, involved in the tactical preparation of this meeting.
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