A New Generation of Players Emerges
Indeed, we are only at the first preliminary round, but the signs are clear: a new group of players is forming, and their performance is revealing promising signs that allow us to look forward to the African competition.
Positive Competition at EST
Beyond the result, which is logical, the richness of the EST squad has established a positive competition by default. Moreover, the positions have become so valuable that we tend to forget some players, only to rediscover them, like Raed Bouchniba, who scored the qualifying goal for the Club World Cup in Pretoria on April 26, 2024, and was incorporated into the game recently (although he couldn't do much due to lack of playing time).
Intense Competition for the Right-Back Position
In the right-back position, the competition is fierce. Mohamed Ben Ali and Ibrahima Keita are blocking the way with their offensive contributions, thanks to their regular ascents. Additionally, Ibrahima Keita was one of the architects of the victory against the Nigerien Armed Forces Sports Association in the return match of the first preliminary round of the African Champions League, scoring a hat-trick before Abdramane Konaté (who assisted on the first two goals) provoked a penalty, which was converted by Yassine Meriah in added time.
Diakité and Danho: Players Who Are Making a Name for Themselves
Aboubacar Diakité, the 18-year-old Malian striker, may not have scored in the return match, but he had the merit of heavily weighing on the Nigerien defense. With regular playing time, Diakité can be a good backup for the latest arrival, Florian Danho, who scored on his first appearance for the "sang et or" team against OB and will qualify for the Champions League from the second preliminary round.
Jabri's Struggles
However, it is clear that Achref Jabri is far from the excellent level he presented throughout the previous season. Jabri may be a good player, but he needs time to regain his form from last season. Until he regains his famous prowess and the coach gives him regular playing time in championship matches, the hierarchy at the forefront of the attack wants Florian Danho to be the starter and Aboubacar Diakité to be his substitute.
A Competitive Midfield
In the midfield, Onuche Ogbelu has been imposing himself since the Club World Cup as a key piece, and it's worth putting in the effort to keep him. In this compartment, Chiheb Jebali and the returning Houssem Tka complete the puzzle.
A Competitive Group of Players
In short, a competitive group of players is emerging at the African level. There is reason to be reassured until the group stage of the African Champions League, with some adjustments to be made in the winter market according to the coach's targeted needs.
