USM Embarks on a Crucial Phase of Their Continental Season
The pace is set to intensify for Montassar Louhichi's team, with a crucial test against Algerian representative JS Kabylie, followed by a showdown against CA at Radès in the 10th round of L1, and then a trip to the Hocine Ait Ahmed stadium for the return leg against JS Kabylie. For USM, the current green light will undoubtedly impact the team's mental state, which will either be strengthened or weakened, depending on the results and their ability to withstand pressure.
A Promising Start in C1
Although the debut against East End Lions of Sierra Leone may not be a reliable benchmark due to the difference in level between the two teams, USM has nonetheless made a statement ahead of Friday's match. The question on the minds of USM supporters is related to the "rule" established by Louhichi regarding rotation. For some time now, with positive results, the coach has been rotating players, affecting all three lines of the game.
An Embarrassment of Riches
Let's review the squad before highlighting the most likely composition to take to the field at the Taïeb Mhiri stadium. Currently, Louhichi has four competitive players in the axis: Fabrice Zeguei, Raed Chikhaoui, Dhiaeddine Jouini, and Nour Ezzamn Zammouri, who was recently started. On the right flank, the team has relied on Rayan Azzouz for over seven matches, but with the return of Mahmoud Ghorbal, a healthy competition with Azzouz is emerging. On the left side, while Youssef Herch has been occupying the position for several rounds, Seïf Saber is still available as a reliable alternative, especially during the game. In the heart of the game, Louhichi has references, constants with Moez Haj Ali and Yassine Dridi, to whom he can associate either Osmane Diané, Alpha Stéphane Sidibé, or Nassim Douihech. Finally, in attack, Yassine Amri and Aymen Harzi seem unshakeable, while Malian striker Ibrahmi Gadiaga is making a strong case, Malcom Hmidi is still present, as are center-forwards Youssef Abdelli and Ibrahim Souissi. Meanwhile, Fakhreddine Ben Youssef is gaining momentum and striving to secure a starting spot, as seen in the last outing of the Blues. At first glance, Louhichi will have a plethora of options to assemble a competitive eleven against JSK. However, he will also need to adopt a game plan that can make a difference in the long run.
