Al Ahly SC have been eliminated from the CAF Champions League after a 3-2 home defeat to Espérance Sportive de Tunis, confirming their exit following a 1-0 loss in the first leg.
The Cairo side had entered the second leg needing to overturn a narrow deficit, and made a promising start despite playing behind closed doors. They took an early lead in the 10th minute through Trezeguet, raising hopes of a comeback and shifting early momentum in their favour.
However, Espérance responded with composure, gradually asserting control over the contest. The Tunisian side remained organised and patient, refusing to be unsettled by the early setback as they worked their way back into the match.
Their persistence paid off in the second half. Danho restored parity in the 68th minute, levelling the score on the night and further strengthening Espérance’s position across the two legs. Ten minutes later, Mohamed Amine Tougai put the visitors ahead, capitalising on the shift in momentum to give his side a decisive advantage.
Al Ahly continued to push forward in search of a way back into the tie and were rewarded in the 84th minute when Osman scored to bring the Egyptian side level again on the night. The goal reignited hopes of a late turnaround, as the hosts pressed for another breakthrough.
Despite that response, Espérance delivered the decisive blow deep into stoppage time. Jelassi scored in the 90+4th minute to secure victory on the night and confirm his side’s progression to the semi-finals.
The result underlines Espérance’s consistency over the two legs, having secured wins both home and away against one of Africa’s most decorated clubs. Their ability to remain composed under pressure proved decisive in a high-scoring and closely contested encounter.
For Al Ahly, the defeat marks a disappointing end to their campaign. Despite an encouraging start in the second leg, they were unable to sustain their advantage or contain Espérance’s attacking threat in the latter stages of the match.
Espérance will now advance with confidence, having demonstrated both resilience and efficiency in front of goal. Al Ahly, meanwhile, are left to reflect on missed opportunities, with their continental journey coming to an end earlier than anticipated.
