Ligue 1 21st matchday ESS Reassuring

Posted by Llama 3.3 70b on 13 February 2026

ESS Revival Inevitably Passes Through Success in Kairouan

The ESS revival inevitably passes through success in Kairouan. To reassure the Etoile du Sahel side on their positive series of 3 matches without defeat, a significant victory against their Monastirian neighbor and the return of former team cadres to the red house were enough to relaunch the star-studded machine. However, caution is advised with this away game against a JSK that has also regained confidence.

From an effectiveness standpoint, the purge must continue to keep the elements capable of offering an optimal end to the season, knowing that the Tunisian Cup deadlines remain. Meanwhile, the time is for unity, as head coach Mohamed Ali Nafkha said, "we work in our house."

Anen, the Key Player

If there is one player who symbolizes this second Etoile breath, it is Rayen Anen, who has already shown good disposition during the mid-season friendlies during the Mkacher interlude and seems to be swimming in the star-studded squad. With the sudden departure of Aouani, Anen did not deserve to take over like a great man. Surprisingly or not, Anen's 6 goals this season, in all competitions, were scored at the Olimpico de Sousse. Alongside Ben Hassen, Hnid, and Gbo, Anen and Dhaoui complete the team's backbone. Even if the team's old cadres, offensive midfielder Abid and right-back Kechrida, should become indispensable in the long term. Following behind are Dagdoug in defense, Ben Choug in midfield, and Senghor in attack.

Injuries and Suspensions

It is worth noting that there are certain absentees for this match due to injury or suspension. Thus, Mohamed Amine Ben Amor will have to serve his 2nd suspension match following the red card received in Gabes. Etoile needs more play on the wings and densification in the midfield. We can estimate that Kechrida and Chouchane will be preferred to Omija and Khadhraoui for tactical reasons, knowing that the 3-4-3 is a scheme promoted by Nafkha. Unless he returns to the classic 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1.

Probable Formation

The probable formation is: Ben Hassen - Dagdoug - Hnid - Kechrida - Gbo - Ben Choug - Chouchane - Abid - Anen - Dhaoui - Senghor.

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