Champions League: Étoile advances easily against Mbabane

Étoile Sportive du Sahel Takes Command in Group D with Convincing Win

Étoile Sportive du Sahel (ESS) delivered a commanding performance on Tuesday in the third matchday of the CAF Champions League group stage, asserting themselves as the team to beat in Group D. Traveling to Swaziland to face Mbabane Swallows, who shared the group lead going into the match, the Tunisian side dominated from start to finish, securing a 3-0 victory and moving three points clear at the top of the table.

From the first whistle, ESS showed superior organization and quality. The Sousse-based club controlled possession, dictated the tempo, and effectively limited the Swallows’ attacking opportunities. The home side struggled to respond, unable to match Étoile du Sahel’s pace, precision, and tactical cohesion. By halftime, the visitors had already established a comfortable lead, and the match never looked in doubt.

The scoring was opened early, in the 14th minute, when new signing Karim Aouadhi capitalized on a well-delivered assist from Maher Hannachi, demonstrating excellent movement and finishing. Less than twenty minutes later, Hannachi himself doubled the lead in the 32nd minute, connecting a precise buildup into Étoile’s second goal. These two strikes set the tone for the remainder of the match, giving ESS confidence to play with composure and control.

The team’s dominance continued into the second half. In the 71st minute, Amine Chermiti added a third goal, sealing a comprehensive win for the Tunisian side. While ESS could have extended the scoreline even further, they were occasionally guilty of a lack of clinical finishing in front of goal. Nevertheless, the victory reflected a well-rounded performance from the visitors, blending disciplined defending with effective attacking play.

This important win places Étoile Sportive du Sahel firmly atop Group D, now holding seven points, and positions them favorably for early qualification to the knockout stages. The team’s blend of experienced campaigners and recent signings appears to be paying dividends, with new players like Aouadhi and Hannachi making immediate contributions to the squad’s continental ambitions.

In the other fixture in Group D, Zesco United and Primeiro de Agosto played to a goalless draw (0-0), meaning ESS now enjoy a clear lead and can already consider the possibility of securing qualification as early as the next matchday. Coach Roger Lemerre and his players will aim to maintain their form, sharpen their finishing, and continue to capitalize on their growing confidence in upcoming group matches.

Overall, Étoile du Sahel’s commanding display against Mbabane Swallows highlights the team’s readiness to contend seriously for the CAF Champions League title. With a blend of tactical discipline, attacking flair, and emerging talent, ESS is sending a clear message to the rest of the continent: they are serious contenders for African club football’s premier prize.