ES Zarzis Suffers First Defeat of the Season, Losing Leadership
The team's first loss of the season against USM has cost them the top spot. A strong reaction against JSK is necessary to bounce back.
Disappointment and Controversy
The state of coach Anis Boujelbene after the match against USM was telling of the team's disappointment after their first championship defeat at home. Normally composed, the ESZ coach blamed the refereeing for the loss. "The goal we conceded was preceded by two fouls that should have been considered by the VAR," he said, before adding: "However, we failed to take control of the match and put all our strength into the battle before it came to that disputed action. The matches are coming at a frantic pace, but today against JSK, we will do everything to bounce back."
Necessary Corrections
Anis Boujelbene has likely analyzed what went wrong against USM. One regret may be leaving the potent attacking trio of Tajouri, Ben Dhiaf, and Ogoh on the bench. Another regret may be taking the risk of starting with Khalil Kassab, Maher Bessaghaier, and Innocent Nshuti, which was a radical change that disrupted the entire offensive system. The corrections made at halftime, with the introduction of Tajouri, Ben Dhiaf, Ogoh, and later Jertila, were not enough to turn the tide. Against JSK, the team will start with the same composition as the second half against USM.
