Now That Maher Kanzari Is Gone and Patrice Beaumelle Has Taken the Helm, Some Players Must Seriously Re‑Evaluate Their Performances
Source: La Presse
A Disappointing First Match for Patrice Beaumelle
It would be a stretch to say that Patrice Beaumelle’s debut in charge of the team was a success. The 0‑0 draw at Métlaoui felt more like a partial failure than a respectable result, especially since the “Sang et Or” (Blood and Gold) had taken the lead thanks to Achref Jabri’s goal in the 53rd minute.
Once again, the “Sang et Or” attack struggled to break down a side that sat deep and defended in a low block. While Jabri managed to find the net, his output is far from that of a true centre‑forward – he has only 5 goals in 21 league appearances.
Defensive Lapses: Ibrahima Keita’s Costly Error
On the defensive side, another well‑paid player failed his mission. Ibrahima Keita was out‑paced by Raed Fadaa, which forced him to commit a reckless foul in the penalty area. The spot‑kick was calmly converted by Christian Bodian in the 76th minute.
The “Al Ahly” Memory Resurfaces
The setback at Métlaoui reminded supporters of the Al Ahly encounter in mid‑March. Fans are now questioning whether the current squad can actually challenge Al Ahly in the Champions League quarter‑finals – a concern that fuels the most skeptical sections of the fanbase.
Why the Skeptics May Be Right
- Ibrahima Keita was left exposed by Raed Fadaa without adequate help from fellow defenders Guennichi and Jelassi.
- Diakité and Diarra were seen shuffling in the final 20 meters, offering little threat.
Even though the match conditions were far from ideal – it was played during Ramadan, the kickoff time was inconvenient, and the synthetic turf was in poor shape – the Espérance players (both local and foreign) are well‑paid and should be able to protect their lead.
Bottom line: the squad must improve tactically and, more importantly, physically. The problems at Espérance do not rest solely on the coach.
Further Reading
USM in Search of Promotion: Breaking Away from False Starts
Keywords: Patrice Beaumelle, Espérance, Métlaoui, Achref Jabri, Ibrahima Keita, Raed Fadaa, Champions League, Al Ahly, Tunisian football, La Presse
