The highly anticipated Tunis derby is set to unfold today, April 20, 2025, as Espérance Sportive de Tunis takes on Club Africain in a crucial clash for the 27th matchday of Ligue 1. The match will kick off at 16:00 at the Hammadi Agrebi stadium in Radès, promising an electric atmosphere filled with passionate fans and high stakes.
Espérance enters this derby with a strong recent performance, having just secured a commanding 6-0 victory over AS Kasserine in the cup. This win not only boosted their confidence but also set the tone for their preparation, which began in earnest on Thursday. The coaching staff has focused on tactical work, knowing that the physical and mental readiness of the players is already up to par for such a significant encounter.
However, the team faces challenges as they will be without several key players. Yassine Meriah, Roger Aholou, and Mohamed-Amine Tougaï are still recovering from injuries and will not be available for this match. Additionally, Youcef Belaïli is serving a suspension, adding to the list of absentees for the reigning champions. Despite these setbacks, the squad remains determined to defend their colors with ambition and pride.
On the other side of the pitch, Club Africain has been meticulously preparing for this derby for over a month, driven by the desire to reclaim their status in Tunisian football. Their enthusiasm is palpable, as evidenced by attempts to bring football legend Zinédine Zidane to the match, showcasing the importance of this rivalry. The stakes are high, with Club Africain currently sitting fourth in the league with 53 points, needing a win to stay competitive in the title race.
The derby is not just a battle on the field; it represents a clash of cultures and histories between two of Tunisia’s most storied clubs. Espérance, co-leaders of the league with Union Sportive Monastirienne at 56 points, is keen to maintain their top position, while Club Africain aims to bridge the gap and re-enter the title conversation.
As the clock ticks down to kickoff, excitement builds among the supporters. Approximately 28,000 fans from Club Africain are expected to fill the stands, ready to cheer their team to victory. The atmosphere will be electric, with chants and songs echoing throughout the stadium, as fans know that the outcome of this match could have significant implications for the remainder of the season.
To ensure a fair and smooth match, the Tunisian Football Federation has appointed a Portuguese officiating crew for this high-stakes encounter. Leading the officiating team is Luís Godinho, supported by Rui Teixeira and Pedro Mota. Additionally, Bruno Esteves and Nuno Manso will serve as video assistant referees (VAR), while the Tunisian Sadok Selmi will take on the role of fourth official. This trio aims to maintain order and fairness in what is expected to be a fiercely contested match.
The significance of this derby extends beyond the current season, as it has historically been a defining moment for both clubs. The rivalry is steeped in tradition, with each match serving as a testament to the passion and spirit of Tunisian football. Fans eagerly await the outcome, knowing that the result could shape the narrative of the league as it approaches its climax.
As the players prepare to take the field, the air is thick with anticipation. For Espérance, it’s about proving their dominance in Tunisian football, while for Club Africain, it’s an opportunity to assert themselves and reclaim their place among the elite. With so much at stake, both teams are expected to give their all, making for a thrilling spectacle.
Fans unable to attend the match in person can catch the action live on Watania 1 and Al Kass, ensuring that supporters from all corners can witness this monumental event. As the teams line up for kickoff, the excitement reaches a fever pitch, and the derby is set to begin. Who will emerge victorious in this fierce battle for pride and points? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the passion of Tunisian football will be on full display today.
