Disappointing Result for Étoile Sportive du Sahel
Apart from the unflattering result, a 2-1 defeat against Kawkab Athlétique Club de Marrakech, the average intensity of the game and the lack of motivation from some players observed in friendly matches are cause for concern. Étoile is still searching for its form as it prepares to face USM on Saturday and enters the CAF Cup against Sudan's Al Ahly Wad Madani in a few days.
A Step Back for Étoile
While Morocco often succeeds in official competitions, especially against top teams like ESS, which has held its own in recent years, Étoile has fallen back into its old habits. A poorly negotiated friendly match against KACM was all it took for doubt to creep back into the minds of players and supporters. There were some positives, but more negatives, inevitably leading to a defeat.
Tops and Flops
During this test match against Marrakchis, some players held their own, while others seemed less impressive. Omar Bah, who scored the only Étoile goal, the equalizer at the start of the second half, and Naouali, who hit the post twice in the action leading to the goal, earned points, particularly in view of the upcoming African double confrontation. Ghedamsi, who was caught off guard by the winning goal, Alassane Diao, who was clumsy, and Aouani, who was off-target, were less convincing.
Notable Absences and Injuries
The Senegalese striker, Moussa Senghor, was the most notable absentee due to a passport renewal issue. The match was marked by tense moments, including the expulsion of Étoile's coach, Lassâad Dridi, who contested the quality of the refereeing, and the injury sustained by captain Malek Baayou, who is uncertain for the match against USM on Saturday. Maher Ben Sghaier also got injured and was replaced by Guinean Omar Bah before the 30-minute mark.
Recruitment and Departures
Meanwhile, the recruitment cell has been active, signing a defensive midfielder to address the defensive block's shortcomings. Cédric Gbo may be the one to make way, as he is no longer part of the group and has been asked to find a new club. Étoile could have also brought back its former player, Jacques Mbé, who is currently without a club. For now, the trio of Anan, Uche Goodlad, and Chouchane has not yet developed good chemistry and a smooth game, despite some promising signs seen in the win against ASG.
New Target
Debora Fernandes Mavembo, a 25-year-old with dual Angolan and Congolese nationality, who played for Simba SC in Tanzania last season and is now a free agent, is expected to join Étoile in Sousse. To trim its squad, Étoile is set to announce the departure of two players: Nigerian midfielder Ibrahim Auwal, who was recruited this summer, and young striker Salah Barhoumi. USM has announced the signing of Barhoumi, making him the fourth Étoile player to join the rival team. The termination of Auwal's contract is reportedly due to medical reasons, while a financial dispute is behind Barhoumi's departure.
Upcoming Challenges
As Étoile navigates its final friendly matches, coach Dridi has had time to assess his squad and make decisions about the best and worst elements. The most important thing remains the competition, and Étoile cannot afford to slip up in its next three crucial matches in the championship and the CAF Cup. Finally, the board of directors has announced the Ordinary General Assembly for September 30, which will discuss the 2024-2025 sports season's balance sheet.
