Espérance: Experienced defender doubtful for CAFCL quarterfinal second leg

Following their 1-0 first leg victory at home against Egyptian giants Al Ahly in the CAF Champions League quarterfinals, Espérance Tunis coach Patrice Beaumelle has decisions to make in his defense ahead of Saturday’s second leg in Cairo.

 

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Veteran center back Hamza Jelassi’s status was described as “doubtful” by the French coach, ruling out an important contributor.

The 34-year-old, who participated with the Tunisia national team at the 2025 FIFA Arab Cup, has been a valuable presence. Once club captain Yassine Meriah went down with injury in early February, Jelassi has stepped up to be a reliable player and central defensive partner to Algerian international Mohamed Amine Tougai.

Other absences for Espérance ahead of second leg

A likely replacement for Jelassi is promising player Khalil Guenichi. The versatile 23-year-old brings mor potential with his impressive physical profile compared to other options.

Jelassi’s injury appears to be the only concern besides other stars who were injured earlier in the ongoing campaign. In addition to Meriah’s absence, star attacker Youcef Belaïli continues to be absent due to a long-term knee injury suffered back in early November.

EST’s victory in the first leg was their first victory against their Egyptian opponents in six matches, a stretch that goes back to 2018 when the Tunisian club’s last victory against Ahly secured the Champions League title that year.