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Espérance Sportive de Tunis

Coordinates: 36°44′52″N 10°16′22″E / 36.74778°N 10.27278°E / 36.74778; 10.27278
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This article is about the football team. For the handball team, see Espérance Sportive de Tunis (handball). For the volleyball team, see Espérance Sportive de Tunis (volleyball). For other uses, see Espérance (disambiguation).
Not to be confused with Espérance Sportive de Zarzis.

Espérance Sportive de Tunis
Full nameEspérance Sportive de Tunis
Nickname(s)The Smiling One
The Red and Yellow
The Blood and Gold
The Beast of Africa
The Elder of Tunisian Clubs
Short nameEST
Founded15 January 1919
106 years
GroundStade Hammadi Agrebi
Capacity65,000 [1]
Coordinates36°44′52″N 10°16′22″E / 36.74778°N 10.27278°E / 36.74778; 10.27278
ChairmanHamdi Meddeb
Head coachLaurențiu Reghecampf
LeagueTunisian Ligue Professionnelle 1
2023–24Ligue 1, 1st of 14 (champions)
Websitee-s-tunis.com
Current season
Active departments of Espérance de Tunis
Football Boxing Handball Male
Judo Swimming Volleyball Male
Volleyball Female Water Polo Wrestling

Espérance Sportive de Tunis (EST, French pronunciation: [ɛs.pe.ʁɑ̃s spɔʁ.tiv də ty.nis] ⓘ) and in Arabic: الترجي الرياضي التونسي, romanized: (Attaraji ar-Riyāḍi Attūnisī, or simply as Attaraji ⓘ), and nicknamed "Mkashkha", The Elder of Tunisian Clubs, The Blood and Gold Club and The Beast of Africa is a Tunisian professional sports club. It was founded on 15 January 1919 in the Bab Souika neighborhood in Tunis. Its best known football section has been active in the first Tunisian Professional League 1 since 1936, during which it played 63 seasons, except for the 1970–71 season.

It is the most successful Tunisian club nationally and internationally in all competitions, with 33 Tunisian Professional League 1 titles (record),[2] the last of which was the 2023–24 season, 15 Tunisian Cup titles (record), the last of which was the 2015–16 season, and 6 Tunisian Super Cup titles (record), the most recent of which is the 2020–21 edition, the Hedi Shaker Cup in 1968 and the Hamda El Aouani tournament in 1978. At the African level, Esperance won the CAF Champions League title four times in 1994, 2011, 2018, 2018–19, the CAF Cup in 1997, the CAF Super Cup in 1995 and the African Cup Winners' Cup in 1998. At the Arab level, Esperance is the most Arab club to have won the Arab Club Champions Cup title three times (a record) in the 1993, 2008–09, 2017 editions and the Arab Super Cup in 1996. Globally, Esperance won the Afro-Asian Club Championship in 1995. It participated three times in the FIFA Club World Cup in 2011, 2018, and 2019, and was satisfied with fifth place as the best participation.

Esperance Sportive de Tunis ranked seventh in the ranking of the best African clubs of the twentieth century compiled by FIFA. The Confederation of African Football also chose it as the fifth best African club in the twentieth century,[3] and it topped the ranking of African clubs several times, most recently in 2018. Espérance Sportive de Tunis won the CAF Champions League in 2011 and received the FIFA Fair Play Award at the FIFA Club World Cup in 2019.[4] There is a certain rivalry with Club Africain, which it plays against in the Tunis derby every season of the Tunisian Professional League 1 and sometimes the Tunisian Cup, and another competition in the Tunisian Clásico with Étoile Sportive du Sahel and CS Sfaxien. Former Esperance player Tarak Dhiab is considered a legend and icon of the club, as he is the most participating player with 427 matches and the all-time top scorer, scoring 127 goals. Tunisian businessman Hamdi Meddeb has been president of the club since 2007, and it has been coached by Portuguese coach Miguel Cardoso since January 2024. Espérance de Tunis will host its competitors on the field of the Hammadi Agrebi Stadium, located in the city of Radès, in the southern suburb of the city Tunis. After his name, several clubs in the region were named after Esperance, such as Espérance Sportive de Zarzis, Esperance Wadi Al-Nis of Palestine, Esperance Club of Saudi Arabia, Espérance Sportive Troyes of France and Esperance Mostaganem of Algeria.

Espérance de Tunis has a wide fan base in Tunisia, not only in the capital but throughout the country. After winning the CAF Champions League title twice in a row, the club's popularity has also appeared in Africa, and fans abroad frame some of its beloved cells such as France, Germany, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates. In the 2018 FIFA Club World Cup, more than 15,000 supporters were transported to the United Arab Emirates to support the team.

History

[edit]

Founding and early years

[edit]
Muhamed Zouaoui, the co-founder of Espérance

The club was founded at the Café de L'Espérance (Arabic: مقهى الترجي) in the Bab Souika neighborhood of Tunis, by Muhamed Zouaoui and Hédi Kallel.[5][6]

Authorization decree
15 January 1919 .

After almost one year of waiting, the authorities granted the founders of Espérance an initial verbal approval to establish the club in January 1919. However, two weeks later, they were required to appoint a French president to obtain official authorization, as the regulations at the time mandated that all such clubs be legally chaired by a French national. To comply, they turned to Louis Montassier, a member of the French colonial administration.

On 15 January 1919, Espérance was officially registered, marking a moment of great joy for its founders, Muhamed Zouaoui and Hédi Kallel, who successfully established the first Tunisian football club. Its initial colors were green and white ➜. [7][8]

Espérance with the white and green jersey in 1920.

Due to a persistent shortage of green jerseys, the club's management stumbled upon a stock of red and yellow jerseys while shopping. They wore these colors for an upcoming match and won. Believing the new colors brought them good luck, the club decided to adopt them permanently. This marked the transition to red and yellow ➜, which became the club's iconic "Sang et Or" colors, a tradition that continues today. [9]

Under Zouiten's tenure, which lasts more than three decades, Espérance was nearly on the verge of abandonment until promotion to the honorary division of the League of Tunisia in 1936. Espérance also managed to reach the final of the Tunisian Cup, but were beaten by Stade Gaulois. Three years after its failure against the Stade Gaulois, Espérance won the Tunisian Cup (1939) against the Etoile Sportive du Sahel (3–1), its first ever triumph and title. It was in 1955 that Espérance qualified to represent the Tunisian League in the North African championship. In the knockout match, two of the five teams were drawn at random to compete against each other and the winner immediately qualifies for the semi-finals. Wydad of the Moroccan League and the Espérance Sportive de Tunis faced each other; the meeting took place in Tunis on 15 May 1955, the Tunisian club losing on the score of 2 goals to 1. Between the start of the Second World War and independence (1956), the squad quality improved.

An Exclusively Muslim Club

[edit]
Espérance café in Bab Souika.

Football emerged in the Regency of Tunis in the early 1900s. European clubs, largely colonial appendices of metropolitan sports associations, were the only ones to participate in the first Tunisian championship in 1910. Among these were French clubs such as Racing Club de Tunis (founded in 1904), Les Lutins (a society sponsored and funded by the Catholic Church), Sporting Club de Tunis (1908), and Stade Gaulois, as well as Italian clubs (Italia de Tunis, Savoia de Sousse) and Maltese clubs, with the most representative being Mélita-Sports in Tunis. The following years saw this lineup grow with Jeanne d'Arc, Avant Garde, and Stade Tunisois. The Stade Africain, a Franco-Arab club (but predominantly French), was the first to include Tunisian players, recruited from colleges and high schools.

After a two-year interruption due to the World War I, a Franco-Arab Cup was held in 1917, marking the return to competition. During the final between Stade Africain and Stade Tunisois (a club that only accepted Jewish players), violent incidents erupted between the supporters of the two teams. The atmosphere in the stands was filled with latent anti-Semitism: the 14 points of President Woodrow Wilson and the Balfour Declaration were on the lips of those in the know, and resentment against the Jewish population, who had not been mobilized during the conflict, lingered in the minds of military personnel filling the stands. Following the disturbances between Muslims and Jews, and the anti-Semitic incidents that marred the match, any sports demonstration or mass gathering was banned.[10][11]

Located in the northern part of the Medina, Rue Achour, predominantly Muslim, extended towards Hafsia, an area with a significant Jewish population, fostering interaction between two neighboring groups. These communities, initially adversaries, grew closer and decided to merge their teams, calming the authorities of the French Protectorate. In response, the Union Sportive Tunisienne (UST) was born from the fusion of Stade Tunisois and Stade Africain. This new club would go on to dominate Tunisian football during the interwar period.[12]

Bab Souika TUNIS in 1919.

Muhamed Zouaoui, the goalkeeper for Stade Africain, alongside Hédi Kallel and Othman Ben Soltan, who were advocates for the creation of an "authentically" Muslim club—not just a Tunisian one—met at the "L'Espérance" café on the edge of the Medina Bab Souika. This meeting marked the founding of Espérance Sportive de Tunis. The establishment of this club was in direct response to the creation of the UST, which had been predominantly composed of Jewish players after the departure of Muslim members. Espérance Sportive was officially granted permission by the French authorities on January 15, 1919, and was formed not to oppose a national identity but as a countermeasure to the Jewish community's initiative in Tunisian football.[13]

The founding date of Espérance carries special significance in shaping the club's identity. Many football enthusiasts, regardless of which team they support, believe that Espérance is the first Tunisian team to have been created in the country. This sense of authenticity derived from the club’s origins contributes to its mythical status: it is often seen as an early commitment to the national movement. The club’s recruitment policy, focused exclusively on Muslim players from the beginning, further solidified its reputation. Despite modest early results, Espérance stood out by its insistence on fielding only Muslim players, in contrast to other Tunisian clubs like UST and Club Africain, which fielded French or Italian players. This refusal to have "mixed blood" players and the purity of a team composed solely of local talent positioned Espérance as a symbol of Tunisian nationalism.[14]

However, the presence of a French president, Louis Montassier, who was required by French law when forming any association, did somewhat tarnish the club’s image among the "Espérantistes," as this affiliation conflicted with the ideals of nationalism. Nevertheless, the authenticity of Espérance Sportive was cemented by its deep-rooted connection to the northern Medina neighborhoods, reinforcing its status as a local, nationalist institution.

First Achievements (1936–1956)

[edit]

In 1936, under the leadership of coach Hammadi Ben Ghasham, Espérance Sportive de Tunis secured promotion to the first division, a status they have never left since[15]. The players who contributed to this achievement in such tough circumstances included: Mohsen El-Khlifi, Al-Arrousi Ettasouri, El-Kafi, Berlabih, El-Riyahi, Larqash, Ben Ghasham, Khalafed, Baalrabi, Cherif, Ben Ghazi, El-Halaibi, Abdelsamad, El-Madhab, and El-Qatousi.[16]

During the presidency of Chadhli Zouiten, who led for over three decades, the club almost risked being overlooked before it was promoted to the prestigious league in 1936. Espérance also reached the final of the Tunisian Cup, but they were defeated by Stade Guelma.[17]

After three years of setbacks against Stade Guelma, Espérance achieved victory in the 1938–39 Tunisian Cup, triumphing 3-1 over their archrival Étoile Sportive du Sahel. In 1955, the club advanced to represent the Tunisian Football League in the North African Championship. In the knockout phase, two teams were drawn randomly to face off, with the winner progressing to the semifinals. Wydad Athletic Club from the Moroccan league and Espérance Sportive de Tunis were drawn together, with the match held in Tunis on May 15, 1955. Espérance lost 2-1.[18]

From the beginning of World War II to Tunisian independence, the club's strength was felt all across the country. Espérance emerged as the dominant club, reinforced by Algerian players like Abdelaziz Ben Tifour. At this point, French, Italian, and Maltese clubs, which had previously ruled Tunisian football, had to accept Espérance Sportive de Tunis as the top club in Tunisia.[19]

Post independence 1956

[edit]

The titles (champion in 1958 and 1960 and winner of the cup in 1957) but also the style of play explain the popular enthusiasm. Attacking football was abandoned in 1963 following the passage of Ben Azzedine as coach. The latter opts for Italian-style defensive principles.[20]

In 1971, violent riots occurred in Stade El Menzah by Espérance supporters following the historic goal of Ahlam Ghawari in the first minute of the game. The authorities then sanctioned Espérance and withdrew the right to play in the first division. The football section of the Espérance was dissolved while the team was one day away from being crowned as champions.[21][22][23]

Slim Chiboub era and national dominance (1989–2004)

[edit]

Slim Chiboub took charge of the club in 1989. Quickly, he kept one of his promises with a double in 1990–1991. In 1993, he won international and local titles. Espérance also won its first regional cup, the Arab Club Champions Cup, becoming the first Tunisian team to do so in 1993.[24] The following year, the club won its first CAF Champions League at the expense of defending champion Zamalek. In 1995, EST won the CAF Super Cup as well as the Afro-Asian Cup, becoming the first Tunisian club to win all possible continental titles.[25] Espérance Sportive de Tunis won ten Tunisian league titles, including seven successive titles between 1998 and 2004 and set a new national record.[26][27]

Hamdi Meddeb era (2007–present)

[edit]
Espérance Sportive de Tunis, CAF Champions League Champions in 2011
Espérance Sportive de Tunis, CAF Champions League Champions in 2018

Between 2005 and 2007, Aziz Zouhir led the club, which won the double (championship and cup) in 2006.[28] In 2007, Hamdi Meddeb took charge of the club. He focused on boosting Espérance financially and recruiting African and Tunisian talents.[29]

The 2010–2011 season Espérance completed a historical treble by winning the League, National Cup and the African Champions League, under coach Nabil Maâloul.[30] Following this success, a new committee chaired by Hamdi Meddeb was elected on 25 September 2011 for a three-year term. However, Maâloul resigned after a sixth place in the FIFA Club World Cup. However, the team lost the 2012 CAF Champions League final to Al Ahly, and the team star Youssef Msakni was sold to Qatari club Lekhwiya for 23 million Tunisian dinars.[31]

On 6 August 2017, the club won their fourth Arab title and third Arab club championship by beating the Jordanian side Al Faisaly (3–2) after extra time.[32] After winning its 28 league title on 8 April, Espérance won its third CAF Champions League against Al Ahly despite a defeat (3–1) on the home soil of the eight-time African champions in the first leg. In the second match, the Tunisians won with a score of 3–0, in front of a crowd of 60,000 people, with goals from Saad Bguir and Anice Badri. With the help of the young coach Moïne Chaâbani the club clinched the third Champions League in its history, a few months before its centenary on 15 January 2019.[33] The club ended the 2018–2019 season as African champions for the fourth time after winning the CAF Champions League against Wydad (1–1 away and 1–0 at home), due to Wydad refusing to play in protest of VAR decision.[34][35]

Building a New Generation (2008-2010)

[edit]
Match between Espérance Sportive de Tunis and Club Sportif de Hammam Lif during the 2008–09 Tunisian Ligue Professionnelle 1 at the El Menzah Stadium.

The club has aimed to recruit one African star per year, following the example of Michael Eneramo.[citation needed] Over the years, Espérance signed several African and Tunisian internationals, including Harrison Afful from Feyenoord in the Netherlands and a member of the Ghana national team, Eneramo (from the Nigeria national football team), Khaled Korbi and Youssef Msakni (from Stade Tunisien and both members of the Tunisia national football team), Mejdi Traoui (from Red Bull Salzburg and a member of the Tunisia national team), Dramane Traoré from FC Lokomotiv Moscow and a member of the Mali national football team, and Yannick N'Djeng for 700,000 euros.[36]

With these players, the club won the Tunisian Cup in 2008 and 2011, as well as the championship in the 2008–2009, 2009–2010, 2010–2011, and 2011–2012 seasons, in addition to the 2009 North African Cup Winners Cup and the Arab Champions League 2008-2009. They were also finalists in the CAF Champions League 2010. However, Meddeb's policy was not limited to recruiting football players: he hired coach Faouzi Benzarti and later the club's own Nabil Maâloul in December 2010.

Historic Treble (2011)

[edit]


Team lineup against Wydad AC in Casablanca during the 2011 CAF Champions League

The 2010–2011 season marked a pinnacle in the history of Espérance Sportive de Tunis, as they achieved a remarkable treble. The club clinched the 2010–11 Tunisian Ligue Professionnelle 1, the 2010-2011 Tunisian Cup, and most notably, the prestigious 2011 CAF Champions League, a triumph that cemented their dominance in African football. which marked a pinnacle in the history of Espérance Sportive de Tunis, as they achieved a remarkable treble, the first-ever in Tunisian club football history.

Following this unprecedented success, the club's leadership saw a change, with a new board of directors, led by Hamdi Meddeb, elected on 25 September 2011 for a three-year mandate. Despite this leadership shift, the club's fortunes faced a setback. Coach Nabil Maâloul resigned after the team's disappointing sixth-place finish in the FIFA Club World Cup, a tournament where Espérance had hoped to make a stronger impact

Arab and African Glory: Espérance de Tunis’ Historic Centenary (2016-2019)

[edit]

The 2016–2017 season marked the arrival of several key players such as Ferjani Sassi,[37] Mohamed Ali Moncer,[38] Anice Badri,[39] Mohamed Zaabia, and Hichem Belkaroui.[40] The team finished the first phase of the league in the top spot. In January 2017, the club decided to replace Souayah with Faouzi Benzarti,[41] believing that under his leadership, the team could clinch the CAF Champions League. On May 18, the club won their 27th Tunisian championship title with a 3–0 victory against Étoile Sportive du Sahel. The team lost in the semi-finals of the 2016-2017 Tunisian Cup to Union sportive de Ben Guerdane.[42] Having finished the group stage in first place,[43] the team faced Al Ahly in the quarter-finals of the Champions League.

Espérance Sportive de Tunis, winners of the 2018 CAF Champions League.

On August 6, the club won their fourth Arab title and third 2017 Arab Club Championship after defeating Al-Faisaly SC (3–2) after extra time.[44]

During the transfer window, the club signed Franck Kom,[45] Maher Bessghaier, Michael Eneramo,[46] and Änis Ben-Hatira;[47] Haythem Jouini returned after his loan at Club Deportivo Tenerife. After a draw in Egypt (2-2), the team lost at home to Al Ahly (2–1),[48] thus being eliminated from the quarter-finals of the Champions League.

Despite good results that saw the club finish first in the first half of the 2017–18 Tunisian Ligue Professionnelle 1, Faouzi Benzarti resigned under pressure from fans, who blamed him for the team's poor performances despite the victories. Mondher Kebaier briefly took over as coach before Khaled Ben Yahia returned. After several positive results, including a 3–2 victory against Étoile Sportive du Sahel and an away win against CS Sfaxien (2–0), the club secured their 28th title on April 8, three matches before the end of the season.

ES Tunis won their third CAF Champions League title against Al Ahly despite a 3–1 loss in the first leg on the pitch of the eight-time African champions; this match was marked by controversial decisions from referee Algerian Mehdi Abid Charef, who awarded two penalties to Al Ahly despite the presence of VAR,[49] followed by media outrage.[50][51] In the return match, the Tunisians won 3–0 in front of a crowd of 60,000 people, with standout performances from Saad Bguir and Anice Badri.

This victory secured the club's third Champions League title in history, just months before its centenary.[52] They lost to Raja CA on March 30, 2019, in the CAF Super Cup after a goal by Abdelilah Hafidi, followed by an equalizer from Youcef Belaïli, and finally, a second goal by Badr Benoun for Raja.[53]

After winning the 2018–19 Tunisian Ligue Professionnelle 1, the club finished the 2018–2019 season as African champions for the fourth time after winning the 2018–19 CAF Champions League against Wydad AC.[54]

Colors and symbols

[edit]

Logos throughout history

[edit]
  • 1919
    1919
  • 1924
    1924
  • 1950
    1950
  • 1969
    1969
  • 1987
    1987
  • 2020–present
    2020–present

Red and Yellow

[edit]

During the first year of its establishment, Espérance played in white and green, their uniform green with the elegance of the shirt and hands and black veil, due to a persistent shortage of green jerseys. Chadli Zouiten's share was the red and yellow sports uniforms, which were better than Esperance's uniforms. He gifted them to Esperance, and since then red and yellow become their official colors.

Club Leadership, Squad, and Structure

[edit]

Presidents of Espérance throughout history

[edit]
Country President Term
France Louis Montassier 1919
Tunisia Mohamed Melki 1919–1923
Tunisia Chedly Zouiten 1924
Tunisia Muhamed Zouaoui 1925
Tunisia Mustapha Kaak 1926–1930
Tunisia Chedly Zouiten 1930–1963
Tunisia Mohamed Ben Ismaïl 1963–1968
Tunisia Ali Zouaoui 1968–1971
Tunisia Hassen Belkhodja 1971–1981
Tunisia Naceur Knani 1981–1984
Tunisia Abdelhamid Achour 1984–1985
Tunisia Moncef Zouhir 1985–1986
Tunisia Mondher Zenaidi 1986–1987
Tunisia Hedi Jilani 1987–1989
Tunisia Slim Chiboub 1989–2004
Tunisia Aziz Zouhir 2004–2007
Tunisia Hamdi Meddeb 2007–present
  • Mohamed Malki.
    Mohamed Malki.
  • Mohamed Zouaoui.
    Mohamed Zouaoui.
  • Mustapha Kaak.
    Mustapha Kaak.
  • Hassen Belkhodja.
    Hassen Belkhodja.
  • Hamdi Meddeb.
    Hamdi Meddeb.

Managers of Espérance throughout history

[edit]
  • Roger Lemerre
    Roger Lemerre
  • Antoni Piechniczek
    Antoni Piechniczek
  • Nabil Maâloul
    Nabil Maâloul
  • Faouzi Benzarti
    Faouzi Benzarti
  • Radhi Jaïdi
    Radhi Jaïdi
  • Mouine Chaabani
    Mouine Chaabani
  • Laurențiu Reghecampf
    Laurențiu Reghecampf
Country Manager Years
Tunisia Hammadi Ben Ghachem 1938–1939
Tunisia Hachemi Cherif 1942–1959
Algeria Habib Draoua 1959–1961
Tunisia Hachemi Cherif 1961–1962
France Jean Baratte 1962–1963
Tunisia Abderrahmane Ben Ezzedine 1963–1966
Hungary Sandor Pazmandy 1966–November 1968
France Robert Domergue November 1968–May 1969
Tunisia Abderrahmane Ben Ezzedine May 1969 – 1971
Tunisia Slah Guiza September 1971–November 1971
Czechoslovakia Vladimír Mirka November 1971 – 1973
Tunisia Hmid Dhib 1973–May 1976
Tunisia Abderrahmane Ben Ezzedine May 1976–July 1976
Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia Stjepan Bobek 1976–1978
Tunisia Mokhtar Tlili 1978–1981
Tunisia Hmid Dhib 1981–1982
Tunisia Mrad Mahjoub 1982–December 1983
France Roger Lemerre December 1983 – 1984
Brazil Amarildo Tavares da Silveira 1984–1987
Poland Antoni Piechniczek 1987–1990
Poland Władysław Żmuda 1990–1991
Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia Andon Dončevski 1991–1992
Poland Zdzisław Podedworny 1992–1993
Tunisia Faouzi Benzarti 1993–1996
Italy Luigi Maifredi 1996
Tunisia Khaled Ben Yahia 1996–1997
Tunisia Youssef Zouaoui 1997–2002
Switzerland Michel Decastel 2002–2004
Switzerland Claude Andrey 2004–2005
Tunisia Khaled Ben Yahia 2005–2006
France Jacky Duguépéroux 2006–2007
Tunisia Faouzi Benzarti 2007
Tunisia Larbi Zouaoui July 2007–August 2007
Brazil Carlos Cabral September 2007–December 2007
Tunisia Youssef Zouaoui December 2007–May 2008
Brazil Carlos Cabral May 2008–November 2008
Portugal José Morais November 2008–March 2009
Tunisia Faouzi Benzarti March 2009–November 2010
Tunisia Maher Kanzari November 2010–December 2010
Tunisia Nabil Maaloul December 2010–January 2012
Switzerland Michel Decastel January 2012–May 2012
Tunisia Nabil Maaloul May 2012–February 2013
Tunisia Maher Kanzari February 2013–October 2013
France Sébastien Desabre December 2013–January 2014
Netherlands Ruud Krol January 2014–May 2014
France Sébastien Desabre May 2014–August 2014
Tunisia Khaled Ben Yahia August 2014–February 2015
Portugal José Morais February 2015–June 2015
France José Anigo June 2015–August 2015
Tunisia Ammar Souayah August 2015–January 2017
Tunisia Faouzi Benzarti January 2017–December 2017
Tunisia Mondher Kebaier January 2018–February 2012018
Tunisia Khaled Ben Yahia February 2018–October 2018
Tunisia Mouin Chaâbani October 2018–July 2021
Tunisia Radhi Jaïdi August 2021–June 2022
Tunisia Nabil Maâloul June 2022–May 2023
Tunisia Anis Boussaïdiinterim May 2023
Tunisia Mouin Chaâbani May 2023–October 2023
Tunisia Tarek Thabet October 2023–January 2024
Portugal Miguel Cardoso January 2024–October 2024
Tunisia Skander Kasriinterim October 2024–November 2024
Romania Laurențiu Reghecampf November 2024–present

Kit Manufacturers and Shirt Sponsors History

[edit]

Espérance Sportive de Tunis has had a series of key partnerships with renowned kit manufacturers and shirt sponsors, reflecting the club's evolution and global presence over the years [55]

Period Kit manufacturer Shirt sponsor
1993-94 Germany Uhlsport Tunisia Boga/Noumêm
1994-95 Italy Lotto United States Coca-Cola
1995-96
1996-97 United States Coca-Cola/Germany Opel
1997-98 United States Coca-Cola/France Danone
1998-99 Germany Uhlsport
1999-00 Tunisia Esperance
2000-01 Italy Lotto
2001-02
2002-03 Germany Adidas
2003-04 France Danone/Tunisia Boga
2004-05 Mexico Atletica France Danone/United Kingdom Virgin
2005-06 United States Nike
2006-10 Tunisia Groupe Délice/France Danone
2010-11 Tunisia Groupe Délice/France Danone/South Korea Kia
2011-16 Tunisia Groupe Délice/France Danone
2016-17
2017-22 England Umbro
2022- Italy Kappa

Current squad

[edit]

Note: Flags indicate national team as defined under FIFA eligibility rules; some limited exceptions apply. Players may hold more than one non-FIFA nationality.

Mohamed Amine Tougai 3rd Captain.
Mohamed Amine Ben Hmida Vice-captain.
Yassine Meriah Team Captain.
  • GK  : Goalkeeper
  • DF  : Defender
  • MF : Midfielder
  • FW : Forward
List of Current Players
No. Player Name Position Nationality Notes
1 Amenallah Memmiche GK  TUN
2 Mohamed Ben Ali DF  TUN
3 Koussay Smiri DF  TUN
5 Yassine Meriah DF  TUN Captain
6 Hamza Jelassi DF  TUN
8 Houssem Tka MF  TUN
9 Rodrigo Rodrigues FW  BRA
10 Yan Sasse MF  BRA
11 Youcef Belaïli FW  ALG
13 Raed Bouchniba DF  TUN
14 Onuche Ogbelu MF  NGA
15 Mohamed Amine Tougai DF  ALG 3rd Captain
16 Mohamed Mokhtar Aifaoui GK  TUN
17 Mohamed Mouhli FW  TUN /  BEL
18 Roger Aholou MF  TOG /  CIV
19 Achref Jabri FW  TUN
20 Mohamed Amine Ben Hamida DF  TUN Vice-captain
21 Abdramane Konaté MF  CIV
22 Ayman Ben Mohamed DF  TUN /  IRE
23 Larry Azouni MF  TUN /  FRA
24 Elias Mokwana FW  RSA
25 Elyas Bouzaiene DF  TUN /  SWE
26 Mohamed Sedki Debchi GK  TUN
27 Kebba Sowe FW  GAM
28 Zinedine Kada MF  TUN
30 Koussay Maacha FW  TUN
31 Wassim Karoui GK  TUN
32 Bechir Ben Saïd GK  TUN

Out on loan

[edit]
  • GK: Goalkeeper
  • DF: Defender
  • MF: Midfielder
  • FW: Forward
List of Players Out on Loan
Player Name Position Club Loan Duration Mohamed Wael Derbali MF ES Sétif Until 30 June 2025
Aziz Knani DF Olympique Béja Until 30 June 2025
Amenallah Majhed DF AS Soliman Until 30 June 2025
Aziz Fellah MF AS Gabès Until 30 June 2025
Khalil Guenichi MF Espérance Sportive de Zarzis Until 30 June 2025
Khairi Meddaoui MF Stade Gabèsien Until 30 June 2025
Montassar Triki MF AS Soliman Until 30 June 2025
Mootez Zaddem MF Modern Sport FC Until 30 June 2025
Ghaith Ouahabi MF Dinamo Batumi Until 31 December 2025
Mohamed Wael Derbali MF ES Setif Until 30 June 2025
Rayen Hamrouni FW AS Soliman Until 30 June 2025
Salmen Trabelsi FW AS Soliman Until 30 June 2025
Kebba Sowe FW Al-Kholood Club Until 30 June 2025

Other players under contract

[edit]

Note: Flags indicate national team as defined under FIFA eligibility rules; some limited exceptions apply. Players may hold more than one non-FIFA nationality.

No. Pos. Nation Player
— DF Tunisia TUN Raed Fedaa
— DF Tunisia TUN Zinedine Sassi
— MF Tunisia TUN Zakaria El Ayeb
No. Pos. Nation Player
— MF Tunisia TUN Wael Chaieb
— FW France FRA Bilel Sahli

Current Coaching staff

[edit]
Position Name
Head coach Romania Laurențiu Reghecampf[56]
Assistant coach Romania Viorel Dinu
Assistant coach Tunisia Chamseddine Dhaouadi
Goalkeeping coach Romania Dan Zdranca
Video Analyst Algeria Walid Charchari
Fitness coaches Romania Bogdan Merişanu
Fitness coaches France Léo Djaoui
Team doctor Tunisia Yassine Ben Ahmed
Laurențiu Reghecampf is the current head coach of the club.

Current Management

[edit]
Position Name
President Tunisia Hamdi Meddeb
Honorary President Tunisia Slim Chiboub
Financial Director Tunisia Rafik Mrabet
Law Director Tunisia Farouk Kattou
President of Football Operations Tunisia Riadh Bennour
Spokesman Tunisia Walid Guerfala
Tunisian businessman Hamdi Meddeb is the current president of the club.

Finance

[edit]

Budget

[edit]

In 2012, the club's budget amounted to 7.6 million euros. It then increased to 9.398 million euros in 2013 and 12.17 million euros in 2014,[57] and finally reached 17.6 million euros in 2018.[58]

By the 2022–2023 season, the club's budget reached 50 million Tunisian dinars (approximately 16 million euros).[59]

In a major milestone, Espérance Sportive de Tunis became the first Tunisian sports club to be listed on the Tunis Stock Exchange through its parent company, Taraji Holding, on December 31, 2024.[60] This strategic move is expected to diversify revenue sources, promote financial transparency, and support sustainable growth. Specific figures for the 2024 and 2025 budgets have not yet been disclosed but are anticipated to surpass prior records.

Marketing

[edit]

In recent years, the club has developed its marketing policy as part of the "Perspectives 2019" project, which allows the club to develop an economic division to diversify its funding sources.

After several seasons with Nike, Umbro became the official sponsor of the team at the start of the 2017–2018 season.[61] And in 2022, Kappa became the official kit supplier and partner of the club, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the team's branding and merchandise strategy.[62]

Taraji Store

[edit]
Taraji Store
Taraji Store logo

On 29 June 2012, the Taraji Store, the official store for merchandise of Espérance sportive de Tunis, was officially launched. In January 2017, on the occasion of the club's 98th anniversary, Riadh Bennour announced that two new sales points would be installed.[63]

Since then, several sales points have been established across the national territory. Additionally, the Taraji Store website [Taraji Store] offers the possibility to deliver its products both in Tunisia and internationally.

In 2025, to commemorate the club's 106th anniversary, Espérance sportive de Tunis released special third and fourth kits. The third kit features a white base with metallic golden logos and green detailing, while the fourth kit is in military brown-green with white logos and a gold club crest. These kits are available for purchase through the Taraji Store.[64]

Taraji Holding

[edit]

In December 2024, Taraji Holding, the economic and financial structure of Espérance sportive de Tunis, officially submitted its dossier for listing on the Tunis Stock Exchange. This marks a historic move, as it is the first time a sports club in Tunisia has established an entity structured and oriented towards the financial market, aiming for sustainable finances.[65]

Taraji Mobile

[edit]

The Taraji Mobile offer was launched in early 2014 following an agreement between the operator Tunisie Telecom and Espérance sportive de Tunis.[66] SIM cards in the club's colors have since been made available to supporters with benefits.[67]

Additionally, the official YouTube channel of Taraji Mobile continues to provide supporters with the latest updates and promotional content related to the mobile offer.[68]

Taraji+

[edit]

Since 2022, the club launched Taraji+,[69] its new mobile application, on iOS and Android.[70] Upon its release, the Taraji+ application achieved a significant milestone by surpassing 100,000 downloads within just two days, reflecting its immediate popularity among fans.[71]

This new application allows users to follow all the club's news and access the latest photos, videos, and podcasts.[72]

Additionally, the premium version offers subscribers other advantages, such as early access to Taraji Live, the club's daily show, as well as all multimedia content, interviews, news, and behind-the-scenes footage of the club. The first year allows the club to generate an estimated profit of ten million dinars.[73]

In December 2024, the official application of Espérance Sportive de Tunis, known as Taraji+, was updated to version 2.8. This update enhanced the app's features, providing fans with improved access to the latest news, match schedules, and scores of the club.[74]

[edit]

Tarajji ya dawla

[edit]

This slogan, which made the stands of the Chedly Zouiten stadium vibrate or set ablaze the Espérance supporters in the El Menzah Stadium, is symptomatic of the degree of identification between the team of the "sang et or" (red and gold) and the Bourguibist regime. Often hastily and reductively translated as "State," the term dawla here refers more broadly to power, to supremacy based on superior force. The State is not just a theatrical dialogue element, a metaphor intended to signify the unchallenged domination of a particularist group over others..." The club is not merely a team to whom the paternity of Tunisian football is owed. It would also, and above all, be a political actor, sometimes serving as a banner of sport—and beyond—of the Tunisian state, and sometimes as an instrument of formation and education contributing to the building of the new independent state.[75]

Support

[edit]

ES Tunis is supported throughout Tunisia and in the Tunisian diaspora in Europe, the Middle East and North America. The club has over 1.6 million followers on Facebook. [76]

Ultras L'Emkachkhines

[edit]

Ultras L'Emkachkhines is a powerful and dynamic fan group supporting *Espérance Sportive de Tunis*, one of Tunisia's most prestigious football clubs. Founded in the early 2000s, this group has played a pivotal role in creating the intense atmosphere that characterizes *Espérance* matches. Known for their spectacular choreographies, loud chants, and unwavering loyalty, Ultras L'Emkachkhines have become synonymous with passionate football support.

The group's name, "Emkachkhines," is derived from a term that embodies the cultural heritage and identity of its members. The Ultras' influence extends beyond the stadium, where their coordinated efforts to promote club culture and unify supporters have shaped the way fans interact with the sport in Tunisia. In addition to supporting their team, they are involved in various social causes, often using their platform to promote solidarity and activism among their fanbase.[77]

However, the Ultras' activities are not without controversy. They have faced numerous confrontations with law enforcement and rival fans, and at times, their actions have been critiqued for their intensity. Despite this, their presence is integral to the football landscape in Tunisia, marking them as a formidable force in both the sporting and cultural arenas. The group’s community spirit, charitable work, and dedication to *Espérance*’s success have earned them a lasting place in Tunisian football history.

Their fan base continues to expand, leveraging social media platforms to engage with supporters both locally and internationally, showcasing the global reach of Tunisian football culture. The influence of Ultras L'Emkachkhines on the identity of *Espérance Sportive de Tunis* is profound, and their status as one of the most influential Ultras groups in North Africa remains firmly established.

[78] [79]

Zapatista Esperanza 2007

[edit]

Formed in 2007, *Zapatista Esperanza 2007* represents a fusion of football fandom and social activism. Drawing inspiration from the Zapatista movement in Mexico, a revolutionary group that advocated for indigenous rights, autonomy, and social justice, *Zapatista Esperanza* uses their platform to push for political messages through football culture. This unique fan group stands out not only for their passionate support of *Espérance Sportive de Tunis* but also for their commitment to activism, making their presence in the stands a symbol of resistance against oppression and inequality.

The group’s name, “Zapatista Esperanza,” is a direct nod to the Zapatista Army of National Liberation, whose struggle for indigenous rights and social justice resonated with members of the Tunisian fanbase during a period of political upheaval. The link between the Zapatista movement's fight for equality and the *Espérance* fan group's activism is reflected in their chants, banners, and political statements, all of which are aimed at promoting social change.[80]

Much like their Latin American counterparts, *Zapatista Esperanza*'s political stance has sometimes made them a controversial presence within the stadium. However, they have successfully created a platform where football fans can combine their love for the game with the pursuit of justice. Their activism transcends the pitch, advocating for broader social, political, and economic change within Tunisia and beyond. Despite the political nature of their messages, *Zapatista Esperanza* has managed to maintain a dedicated following, inspiring a new generation of fans to see football not just as a sport but as a tool for social change.[81]

The group's strong presence online, especially on platforms like Facebook, has allowed them to expand their influence and rally supporters from different corners of the world. By utilizing their collective power, *Zapatista Esperanza* continues to shape the landscape of Tunisian football, proving that fandom can be an instrument of both solidarity and resistance.[82] [83]


Accidents

[edit]

Tragedy of 13 June 1971

[edit]

The tragedy of 13 June 1971, when the red and yellow lost the Tunisian Cup final against CS Sfaxien at El Menzah Stadium, ignited violent riots among Espérance Sportive de Tunis supporters. The aftermath resulted in significant human and material losses. The disturbance led the Minister of Interior and Sports at the time to order the dissolution of the team. It wasn't until President Habib Bourguiba intervened and issued a decree to reinstate the club into the sports arena that Espérance was brought back to the national stage.[84] The incident marked a turning point for Tunisian football, exposing the deep tensions between football clubs and their supporters, and highlighting the challenges of maintaining order at high-stakes matches. In the years following the tragedy, Espérance worked hard to restore its reputation and secure its place as one of the dominant forces in Tunisian football. The club implemented reforms aimed at fostering positive relations with fans and ensuring better management of matches to prevent such violent outbreaks from occurring again.[85]

The tragic events of 1971 serve as a reminder of how the passion surrounding football can turn destructive when not carefully managed, and the critical role of leadership in guiding the club through crises. The lessons learned from that tragic day helped shape the club’s policies and strategies for dealing with fans and ensuring the safety of all those involved in the sport.[86]

Tragic Passing of Hedi Berkhissa

[edit]
Hédi Berkhissa, nicknamed Balha. Mural in the city of Ariana.

One of the most tragic incidents in the club's history occurred on 4 January 1997, during a friendly match between Espérance and French side Lyon at Stade Chedli Zouiten. In the final minutes of the match,Hédi Berkhissa, a beloved player, suffered a heart attack on the field and tragically passed away. His sudden death deeply affected the Tunisian football community, and his legacy remains an important part of Espérance's history.[87]

The events of 8 April 2010

[edit]

Espérance Sportive de Tunis experienced a major incident on 8 April 2010, in a highly charged match against CS Hammam-Lif at El Menzah Stadium. The game, which ended in a dramatic 3–3 draw, became infamous for the violent clashes between supporters and security forces. The atmosphere was already tense due to the high stakes of the match, which led to widespread frustration among the fans when the lights at the stadium went out during the game.

The power outage further exacerbated the situation, leading to riots that resulted in several injuries and the arrest of many individuals. The fans were upset by the circumstances surrounding the match, which included the disruption caused by the lights going out at a crucial point in the game. The unrest spilled outside the stadium and turned into violent confrontations with the police, leaving a significant impact on both the club's supporters and the broader football community.

This event marked a high point of tension between the club's passionate supporters and the authorities, symbolizing the deep frustrations among fans about the perceived injustices in Tunisian Football Federation. The incident had a lasting effect on the relationship between Espérance Sportive de Tunis fans and the security forces, highlighting the challenges of managing large-scale football events with such intense emotional investment from the supporters.[88][89]

Infrastructure

[edit]

Stadiums

[edit]

Stade Hammadi Agrebi

[edit]
Hammadi Agrebi Stadium
LocationRadès, Tunis, Tunisia
Capacity65,000[1]
Record attendance65,000, 2004 Afcon final
SurfaceGrass
Construction
Opened6 July 2001
Construction cost170 million Dinar
Tenants
Tunisia national football team
Espérance Sportive de Tunis

Stade Olympique Hammadi Agrebi, originally named Stade 7 November[90], is a multi-purpose stadium located in Radès, Tunis, Tunisia, around 10 kilometers southeast of downtown Tunis. Opened in 2001, it has a capacity of 65,000 spectators. The stadium is primarily used for football matches but also accommodates athletics. It was built for the 2001 Mediterranean Games and hosted the Tunisian Cup final in its opening year.

Hammadi Agrebi Stadium during the final of the 2012 CAF Champions League.


Stade El Menzah

[edit]
Stade El Menzah
LocationTunis, Tunisia
Capacity45,000[91]
SurfaceGrass
Opened1967

Stade El Menzah is a multi-purpose stadium located in the northern part of Tunis, Tunisia. Built to host the 1967 Mediterranean Games, it is an integral part of the country's major sports complex. Originally home to the Tunisia national football team until the opening of Hammadi Agrebi Stadium in 2001, the stadium also hosted matches for the country's top football teams, including Espérance Sportive de Tunis, Club Africain, and Stade Tunisien.

In 1994, the stadium underwent major renovations for the 1994 African Cup of Nations, bringing its capacity to 45,000. It is also home to a VIP section that accommodates up to 300 people.

Rival clubs

[edit]
Rival clubs of Espérance Sportive de Tunis
Country Club Rivalry
Tunisia Club Africain Derby
Tunisia Étoile du Sahel Classico
Tunisia Club Sfaxien Classico
Egypt Al Ahly Rivalry
Egypt Zamalek Rivalry
Morocco Wydad AC Rivalry
Algeria MC Alger Rivalry

Tunis Derby

[edit]
Abdelmajid Ben M'rad (EST) and Tahar Chaïbi (CA).

In Tunisian football, the Tunis derby is the local derby between the two major clubs in the city of Tunis, Tunisia – Club Africain and Espérance de Tunis. The derby is played in Tunis in the Hammadi Agrebi stadium due to its larger capacity of 65,000 seats.[92] Before the construction of this stadium, the derby used to be played in the 45,000 seat-capacity Stade El Menzah.

Derby Statistics

[edit]
Competition Matches Wins Draws Goals
Espérance de Tunis Club Africain Espérance de Tunis Club Africain
Before Independence 37 17 8 10 50 43
Ligue 1 139 56 31 52 166 125
Tunisian Cup 22 9 9 4 22 21
Tunisian Super Cup 2 0 2 0 0 2
Tunisian League Cup 2 2 0 0 4 1
Total 202 84 50 66 242 192

Tunisian Classico

[edit]

The Tunisian Classico refers to the football rivalry between Espérance de Tunis and Étoile du Sahel, based in Tunis and Sousse, Tunisia.[93] It's considered one of the most important rivalries in Tunisian football, with the two teams holding a combined 102 titles, including 17 continental championships.[94] Their first match was in 1944–45, ending in a 0–0 draw.[95] They have faced each other regularly, except during the 1961–62 season when Étoile du Sahel was disbanded.[96] The teams have met five times in the Tunisian Cup, with Espérance winning the first in 1957.[97] The rivalry extended to the continental level in the 2005 CAF Champions League, with both encounters ending in a draw.[98] They’ve finished as champions and runners-up in the same season 17 times, including five consecutive seasons between 1999 and 2004.[99]

Classico Statistics

[edit]
Tournament Games Played EST Victory Draw ESS Victory
Before 1956 16 7 4 5
Ligue Professionnelle 1 141 55 45 41
Tunisian Cup 26 12 3 11
Tunisian Super Cup 1 0 1 0
Champions League 10 7 3 0
Confederation Cup 6 0 1 5
TOTAL 201 82 57 62

Honours

[edit]

Espérance Sportive de Tunis is one of the most successful football clubs in Tunisia and Africa.[citation needed] The club has a rich history, with numerous Tunisian Ligue Professionnelle 1 titles, Tunisian Cup, and Tunisian Super Cup. Espérance is especially renowned for its success in African competitions, particularly in the CAF Champions League, which they have won multiple times. In 1994, they earned the nickname The Beast of Africa after winning every major African trophy in a single season. Despite having strong competition, including clubs like Al Ahly, Espérance has consistently remained a top contender in African football with a remarkable legacy.[100]

The club has also participated in the prestigious FIFA Club World Cup on three occasions: in 2011, 2018, and 2019.[101] These appearances reflect Espérance's strong international presence and their continued prominence in global football.[102][103]

Type Competition Titles Winning Seasons
Domestic Tunisian Ligue Professionnelle 1 33 1941–42, 1958–59, 1959–60, 1969–70, 1974–75, 1975–76, 1981–82, 1984–85, 1987–88, 1988–89, 1990–91, 1992–93, 1993–94, 1997–98, 1998–99, 1999–00, 2000–01, 2001–02, 2002–03, 2003–04, 2005–06, 2008–09, 2009–10, 2010–11, 2011–12, 2013–14, 2016–17, 2017–18, 2018–19, 2019–20, 2020–21, 2021–22, 2023–24
Tunisian Cup 15 1938–39, 1956–57, 1963–64, 1978–79, 1979–80, 1985–86, 1988–89, 1990–91, 1996–97, 1998–99, 2005–06, 2006–07, 2007–08, 2010–11, 2015–16
Tunisian Super Cup 6 1960, 1993, 2001, 2018, 2019, 2021
Continental CAF Champions League 4 1994, 2011, 2018, 2019
African Cup Winners' Cup 1 1998
CAF Cup 1 1997
CAF Super Cup 1 1995
Regional Arab Club Champions Cup 3S 1993, 2008–09, 2017
Arab Super Cup 1 1996
North African Cup Winners Cup 1 2008
Intercontinental Afro-Asian Club Championship 1 1995
  •   record
  • S shared record

Club prizes

[edit]

International participations

[edit]

IFFHS rankings

[edit]

FIFA Club World Cup

[edit]
2025 FIFA Club World Cup Logo.
Participation Record in the FIFA Club World Cup
Year Position Last opponent
2011 Sixth place Mexico Monterrey
2018 Fifth place Mexico Guadalajara
2019 Fifth place Qatar Al-Sadd
  • Espérance Sportive de Tunis will also participate in the upcoming 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, to be held in the US, in its exciting new format. This marks another milestone in the club's continued presence on the global football stage, as they aim to make their mark in this prestigious tournament.[106]

African Cup of Champions Clubs and CAF Champions League

[edit]
Participation Record in the African Cup of Champions Clubs and CAF Champions League
Year Final position / round Last opponent
1971 Second round Egypt Ismaily
1986 Quarter-finals Ivory Coast Africa Sports
1989 Second round Algeria MC Oran
1990 Quarter-finals Nigeria Iwuanyanwu Nationale
1994 Winners Egypt Zamalek
1995 Quarter-finals Egypt Ismaily
1999 Runners–up Morocco Raja Casablanca
2000 Runners–up Ghana Hearts of Oak
2001 Semi-finals Egypt Al Ahly
2002 Group stage Egypt Zamalek
Ivory Coast ASEC Mimosas
Mozambique Costa do Sol
2003 Semi-finals Egypt Ismaily
2004 Semi-finals Nigeria Enyimba
2005 Group stage Tunisia Étoile du Sahel
Egypt Zamalek
Ivory Coast ASEC Mimosas
2007 Group stage Egypt Al Ahly
Sudan Al Hilal
Ivory Coast ASEC Mimosas
2010 Runners-up Democratic Republic of the Congo TP Mazembe
2011 Winners Morocco Wydad AC
2012 Runners-up Egypt Al Ahly
2013 Semi-finals South Africa Orlando Pirates
2014 Group stage Tunisia Club Sfaxien
Algeria ES Sétif
Libya Al Ahly Benghazi
2015 Second round Sudan Al Merrikh
2017 Quarter-finals Egypt Al Ahly
2018 Winners Egypt Al Ahly
2019 Winners Morocco Wydad AC
2020 Quarter-finals Egypt Zamalek
2021 Semi-finals Egypt Al Ahly
2022 Quarter-finals Algeria ES Sétif
2023 Semi-finals Egypt Al Ahly
2024 Runners-up Egypt Al Ahly

CAF Confederation Cup

[edit]
Participation Record in the CAF Confederation Cup
Year Position Last opponent
2006 Group stage Tunisia Étoile du Sahel
Democratic Republic of the Congo Saint-Éloi Lupopo
Equatorial Guinea Renacimiento
2008 Play-off round Tunisia Étoile du Sahel
2015 Group stage Egypt Al Ahly
Tunisia Étoile du Sahel
Mali Stade Malien
2016 Play-off round Algeria MO Béjaïa

CAF Cup

[edit]
Participation Record in the CAF Cup
Year Position Last opponent
1997 Winners Angola Petro de Luanda

African Cup Winners' Cup

[edit]
Participation Record in the African Cup Winners' Cup
Year Position Last opponent
1980 Second round Republic of Upper Volta Kadiogo
1981 First round Niger Zoundourma
1987 Runners–up Kenya Gor Mahia
1998 Winners Angola 1º de Agosto

CAF Super Cup

[edit]
Participation Record in the CAF Super Cup
Year Position Last opponent
1995 Winners Zaire Motema Pembe
1999 Runners–up Ivory Coast ASEC Mimosas
2012 Runners–up Morocco Maghreb de Fès
2019 Runners–up Morocco Raja Casablanca
2020 Runners–up Egypt Zamalek

Afro-Asian Club Championship

[edit]
Participation Record in the Afro-Asian Club Championship
Year Position Last opponent
1995 Winners Thailand Thai Farmers Bank

Individual Achievements of Espérance Players

[edit]

List of Tunisian Ligue 1 Top Scorers

[edit]
Year Player
1959 Tunisia Abdelmajid Tlemçani
1960 Tunisia Abdelmajid Tlemçani
1962 Tunisia Chedly Laaouini
1975 Tunisia Zoubeir Boughnia
1982 Tunisia Riadh El Fahem
1988 Tunisia Nabil Maâloul
1993 Zambia Kenneth Malitoli
1994 Zambia Kenneth Malitoli
1997 Tunisia Sami Laaroussi
1998 Tunisia Ziad Tlemçani
2000 Tunisia Ali Zitouni
2002 Ivory Coast Kandia Traoré
2006 Tunisia Amine Ltifi
2009 Nigeria Michael Eneramo
2010 Nigeria Michael Eneramo
2012 Tunisia Youssef Msakni
2013 Tunisia Haythem Jouini
2017 Tunisia Taha Yassine Khenissi
2019 Tunisia Taha Yassine Khenissi
2022 Tunisia Mohamed Ali Ben Hammouda
2024 Brazil Rodrigo Rodrigues
  • Taha Yassine Khenissi
    Taha Yassine Khenissi
  • Haythem Jouini
    Haythem Jouini
  • Mohamed Ali Ben Hammouda
    Mohamed Ali Ben Hammouda

African Footballer of the Year

[edit]
Tarak Dhiab in 1978.
Year Player
1977 Tunisia Tarak Dhiab[107]

Tunisian Athlete of the Year Award

[edit]
Year Player
1977 Tunisia Tarak Dhiab[108]
1989 Tunisia Khaled Ben Yahia
2000 Tunisia Chokri El Ouaer
Khaled Ben Yahia

Tunisian Golden Boot

[edit]
Year Player
1981 Tunisia Khaled Ben Yahia
1982 Tunisia Tarak Dhiab
1987 Tunisia Khaled Ben Yahia
  • Source: Tunisian Football Federation

Tunisian Golden Ball

[edit]
Youcef Belaïli
Anice Badri
Year Player
2009 Tunisia Oussama Darragi[109]
2012 Tunisia Moez Ben Cherifia
2013 Tunisia Youssef Msakni

African Inter-Club Player of the Year

[edit]
Year Player
2011 Tunisia Oussama Darragi[110]
2019 Algeria Youcef Belaïli[111]

Arab Golden Ball

[edit]
Year Player
2012 Tunisia Oussama Darragi[112]

Best Maghreb Player Award

[edit]
Year Player
2018 Tunisia Anice Badri[113]

Twinning

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ a b "Stade Olympique Hammadi Agrebi".
  2. ^ Fédération Tunisienne de Football
  3. ^ "CAF African Clubs Ranking". RSSSF. Retrieved 24 September 2009.
  4. ^ "FIFA Fair Play Award 2019". Espérance Sportive de Tunis (Official Facebook). 21 December 2019. Retrieved 27 January 2025.
  5. ^ "Témoignages des descendants des Kabyles exilés en Tunisie en 1871 : «Des blessures qui ne cicatrisent jamais»". El watan. Retrieved 24 December 2023.
  6. ^ "الترجي..من "مقهى" إلى "غول لإفريقيا"". 15 January 2019.
  7. ^ "L'Esperance Sportive de Tunis est éternelle". Archived from the original on 25 June 2022. Retrieved 17 December 2020.
  8. ^ "Jeune Afrique l'Intelligent". African Studies Companion Online. doi:10.1163/_afco_asc_687. Retrieved 24 December 2023.
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  10. ^ Entretien avec Michel Denis, Sciences Humaines, no. 27, April 1993, p. 21.
  11. ^ Jacques Berque, *Le Maghreb entre les deux guerres*, Paris, Seuil, 1962, p. 446.
  12. ^ Moroy, Franck. "L’espérance sportive de Tunis: Genèse d’un mythe bourguibien." Maghreb-Machrek 3 (1997): 69-77.
  13. ^ Voir le plan de Tunis, p. 59, for the locations of meetings and socializing related to Espérance Sportive de Tunis.
  14. ^ Cette réflexion s'appuie sur un corpus de vingt-cinq entretiens effectués dans le cadre d'un mémoire de DEA.
  15. ^ "En Vert et Blanc, l'Espérance de Tunis en 1919". 17 February 2019. Archived from the original on 17 November 2020. Retrieved 17 December 2020.
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  17. ^ "Espérance de Tunis - Soccer - BetsAPI". Retrieved 15 July 2024.
  18. ^ "History of the North African Championship". Retrieved 14 January 2025.
  19. ^ "Historique de l'Espérance Sportive de Tunis". Retrieved 15 January 2025.
  20. ^ "Le football tunisien dans les années 1960". Retrieved 17 January 2025.
  21. ^ BBC Arabic, "تاريخ كرة القدم التونسية: الغرام بالمستديرة"، August 2018
  22. ^ El Moudjahid, "تاريخ الأندية التونسية: الإفريقية والترجي وفترة الستينات"، July 2020
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  24. ^ "Arab Club Champions Cup History", ESPN.
  25. ^ "CAF Afro-Asian Club Championship History", CAF Online.
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  27. ^ "FIFA: CAF Champions League History". Retrieved 16 January 2025.
  28. ^ Aziz Zouhir, former president of Espérance Sportive de Tunis, passes away, Mosaïque FM.
  29. ^ "Hamdi Meddeb: L'homme qui a fait revivre l'EST", Jeune Afrique.
  30. ^ Football, CAF-Confedération Africaine du. "CAF CL - Head-to-head: Wydad vs Esperance in CAF matches | Total CAF Champions League 2022/23". CAFOnline.com. Archived from the original on 29 April 2023. Retrieved 29 April 2023.
  31. ^ "Youssef Msakni dans un club qatari pour... 23 millions de dinars !". Archived from the original on 10 May 2021. Retrieved 18 December 2020.
  32. ^ "Coupe arabe des clubs : l'Espérance de Tunis sacrée". 6 August 2017. Archived from the original on 9 August 2017. Retrieved 18 December 2020.
  33. ^ "Ligue des champions: l'Espérance Tunis sacrée face à al Ahly". 9 November 2018. Archived from the original on 19 September 2020. Retrieved 18 December 2020.
  34. ^ "Esperance win CAF Champions League after Wydad refuse to play in protest of VAR decision | Goal.com". www.goal.com. Archived from the original on 29 April 2023. Retrieved 29 April 2023.
  35. ^ "Esperance declared African Champions League winners – DW – 08/07/2019". dw.com. Archived from the original on 29 April 2023. Retrieved 29 April 2023.
  36. ^ "Transfers: N'Djeng officially at ES Tunis," DZfoot, July 10, 2011.
  37. ^ « Mercato: Ferjani Sassi to ES Tunis, contract details », StarAfrica, 9 July 2016.
  38. ^ « Mercato: Mohamed Ali Moncer officially joins Sang et Or », Mosaïque FM, 2 August 2016.
  39. ^ « Mercato: Anis Badri and Aymen Ben Mohamed at Esperance », Mosaïque FM, 30 July 2016.
  40. ^ « Transfers: Belkaroui signs for 2 years at ES Tunis », DZfoot, 27 July 2016.
  41. ^ « Espérance de Tunis: Faouzi Benzarti appointed new coach », Africa Top Sports, 2 January 2017.
  42. ^ « Union de Ben Guerdane creates a surprise, eliminating EST from the Tunisian Cup », Tunisie numérique, 28 May 2017.
  43. ^ CAF Champions League 2017 standings.
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[edit]

NOTE: Content in the edit of 29 January 2025 was translated from the existing Arabic Wikipedia article at ar:الترجي الرياضي التونسي; see its history for attribution.

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