Cap-Bonais Close to Upset Against Club Africain
The Cap-bonais were close to achieving a remarkable feat against a Club Africain team that was far from its usual standards.
The Match
The match between Club Africain and AS Soliman had opposing ambitions, but it did not result in an unbalanced game. The Cap-bonais, led by Soliman, came to Radès to defy predictions, while Club Africain aimed to defend its leadership and win, even without its striker Firas Chawat. The game started with increasing intensity, and Club Africain took control, but AS Soliman's team, led by Sami Gafsi, did not concede and anticipated the opponent's movements.
First Half
After 10 minutes of play, the situation did not change, with Club Africain in possession but without percussion, and AS Soliman closing down and being incisive on counter-attacks. At 20 minutes, Mbarga made a run down the right wing, served Yassine Kasseh, whose shot rebounded off Saidou Khan's arm. After a VAR review, referee Mohamed Ali Karouia awarded a penalty to AS Soliman. At 30 minutes, Manoubi Haddad scored, despite Chamekh following the trajectory of the ball. The advantage was deserved for AS Soliman, who had already created several scoring opportunities on counter-attacks.
Second Half
In the second half, Club Africain pushed forward, but AS Soliman did not give up. With 15 minutes left, after Babacar Diarra's expulsion, Club Africain played with a numerical advantage. However, they failed to capitalize on it. At 82 minutes, Khadhraoui's cross-header grazed the post, and at 97 minutes, Club Africain scored a late equalizer. Kinzumbi beat Moez Ben Chrifia following a flash of brilliance from Khadhraoui and an assist from Ait Malek.
Conclusion
The match ended in a draw, which was frustrating for both teams. The Cap-bonais were close to achieving a remarkable upset, but Club Africain's late equalizer denied them the victory.
