Expert opinion: How can Espérance break the jinx against Al Ahly?

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Foot Africa

·14 March 2026

Expert opinion: How can Espérance break the jinx against Al Ahly?

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How can Espérance break the jinx against Al Ahly?

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Espérance de Tunis/estofficiel

Espérance de Tunis will host Al Ahly on Sunday, March 15, in the first leg of the CAF Champions League 2025-2026 quarterfinals.

The Tunisian club will be aiming to break their curse against their Egyptian rivals, a team they haven’t beaten since the return leg of the 2019 final, a memorable 3-0 victory.

To shed light on the keys that could help Espérance finally end Egyptian dominance, Foot Africa spoke with one of their former players, Karim Aouadhi, who wore the famous blood-and-gold jersey from 2012 to 2014.

I believe the key to victory for Espérance lies first and foremost in the mental aspect. The players must be focused 100% and avoid defensive errors, especially during moments of weakness.It’s also crucial to show fighting spirit and win as many duels as possible, especially in midfield. The Egyptian side becomes extremely dangerous in the attacking zone between the halfway line and the edge of the penalty area, particularly since they have several high-quality players with excellent tactical and technical abilities.Espérance must capitalize on their strong periods by scoring at least one goal, which would allow them to approach the return leg in a much better position.