Esperance Sportive de Tunis will face Mamelodi Sundowns tonight at 9:00 PM local time in the first leg of their CAF Champions League semi-final at the Stade Olympique de Rades.
The Tunisian giants, aiming for a fifth continental title, enter the match with a strong home record against the South African side.
In their previous five encounters in Tunis, Esperance has secured two victories and three draws against Sundowns, maintaining an unbeaten streak at home.
Esperance’s manager, Maher Kanzari, is hoping to bounce back from last season’s painful exit in the quarter-finals, where Sundowns eliminated them on away goals.
This time, Esperance is determined to take a step closer to their tenth final appearance in the prestigious competition.
On the other hand, Sundowns are determined to claim a second Champions League title, after their historic triumph in 2016.
Despite a rocky start in the group stages this year, the South African team has gained momentum in the knockout rounds, and with their attacking firepower, they are expected to put up a strong challenge.
Both sides come into this match in solid form, with Esperance coming off a series of impressive wins, including a 2-0 aggregate victory over Al Ahly in the quarter-finals.
Sundowns, while having to navigate a tough group stage, showed their quality in the knockout rounds and will be looking to exploit any weaknesses in Esperance’s defense.
The clash promises to be a thrilling contest, as both teams vie for a place in the final of Africa’s premier club competition.
The second leg will take place next week, with the winner advancing to the 2024 CAF Champions League Final.
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