More Than Just Three Points, the Public Expects a Better Overall Performance
The CA team has been struggling to impose itself in front of its home crowd, and this trend has been ongoing since last season. Despite facing strong opponents like ESZ and CSS, the team has only managed to secure one point and has delivered a lackluster performance. This afternoon, the CA team will face a shaken USM team, and they are not considered favorites to win. It's up to Benzarti and his players to prove themselves and offer a consistent and solid football performance to emerge victorious.
The last victory against Gabès was not convincing, and it's considered one of the worst performances under Benzarti's era. The team's reliance on players like Zaalouni, Sghaier, Zemzmi, and Khadhraoui, who are average and often outperformed by their opponents, is a concern. The USM team will not be an easy opponent, as they will be aggressive and looking to bounce back from their loss against JSKabylie.
Attack Stabilized, But Improvements Needed in Midfield
Benzarti is known for being stubborn, and significant changes to the team are not expected. Zemzmi will likely be the axial pivot, supported by Sadok Mahmoud, who is gaining confidence. The third midfielder will be chosen from Sghaier, Saydou Kahn, or Aoune. In defense, the only position up for grabs is the right-back spot, which will be contested between Zaâlouni and Romdhane. Chamekh, Shili, Youssef, and Ben Abda are expected to start.
In the front line, Benzarti is unlikely to make changes, as he prefers not to rotate the squad. The trio of Khadhraoui, Kinzumbi, and Chaouat will likely be retained. While Chaouat has been efficient despite the limited ball possession and monotonous gameplay, the other two players have been underwhelming. They need to do more than just the minimum, winning more duels and playing with more movement and creativity.
The CA Team Needs to Convince and Play Better
More than just the three points, the CA team needs to convince the public with a better overall performance. The team's coach, Benzarti, has not yet made his mark, and after over two months of work, the "Benzarti effect" is still not visible. The team needs to play with more intensity, unity, and focus on set pieces. While the quality of the available players, especially in midfield, is not ideal, insisting on using contested and fragile elements is a problem.
This may be the last chance for the team to gain the public's trust, which is expecting more and better performances. As for the substitutes, players like Ait Malek are no longer in the coach's plans, while Srarfi or Mesmari may have a chance to redeem themselves. Cherimi, who has finally qualified, will likely have to wait for his chance to play, as he lacks competition.
