Espérance de Tunis Qualifies for Champions League Quarterfinals
The "Sang et Or" secured their ticket to the quarterfinals of the Champions League this Saturday after defeating the Angolans of Petro Luanda with a score of 2-0, in a match counting for the 6th and final day of the group stage.
After a first half in which the Espérantistes had difficulties finding the gap to unlock the solid Angolan defense, a change made at halftime by interim coach Christian Bracconi proved to be a winner and allowed the situation to be unlocked, with the entry of Chiheb Jebali in place of Kouceila Boualia at halftime.
As soon as he entered the field, Chiheb Jebali slipped to the right, took his time dribbling an opposing defender before sending a precise cross for Aboubacar Diakité, who headed the ball directly into the net (46').
From then on, the Espérantistes took control of the game and even managed to double their lead: served from the middle of the field, Jacques Diarra slipped to the left and sent a crossed shot that left the Angolan goalkeeper speechless (81').
This beautiful victory allows the "Sang et Or" to secure their ticket to the quarterfinals of the Champions League, knowing that a goalless draw would have been enough to qualify.
Note that Espérance de Tunis qualifies second in Group D, with the first place going to Stade Malien.
