In the much anticipated Tunisian Classico, Esperance proved that they were the true kings of Tunisian football. With 21 money zone appearances under their belt, The Elder of Tunisian Clubs alongside Al Ahly Cairo are the teams with the most money zone appearances since 1997.
Their experience was evident in the second half at the Stade Olympique Hammadi Agrebi as their calmness and constant pressure resulted in two quick goals from Brazillian midfielder Yan Sasse and Yassine Meriah’s penalty in the 60th and 64th minutes condemned Imed Ben Younes’ L’Etoile to 2-0 defeat in Tunis.
The best game of the opening round of the 2023-24 CCL was full of action as Yan Sasse opened the scoring after receiving a beautiful through pass which he finished with a fine low drive as he celebrated with the famous Samba dance.
The diminutive Brazillian playmaker was a constant menace as his pace and dribbling tormented the Etoile du Sahel defence.
Former Olympiacos Tunisian centre-back, Yassine Meriah converted a penalty after Egyptian referee Mohammed Adel awarded a very dubious penalty for the home side.
The Tunisian Classico lived up to its hype as the game was a competitive one. Etoile du Sahel will host Petro Luanda whilst Al Hilal will welcome Esperance de Tunis next week.