Club Africain secured a vital 2‑1 victory over AS Marsa on 17 January 2026, moving to 44 points and narrowing the gap to league leaders Espérance de Tunis to just two points. The win strengthens their top‑three position and fuels a genuine title challenge, while Marsa remains ninth, still fighting for a top‑six finish.
Match Summary
Key Moments
23’ – Goal: Mohamed “Momo” Mézari received a quick one‑two, cut inside and fired a low drive from the edge of the box to open the scoring.
38’ – Equaliser: Sofiane Aouadi headed in a lofted ball after a rapid counter‑attack, restoring parity for the home side.
61’ – Winning Goal: Youssef Trabelsi’s through‑ball split the defence, allowing Mézari to lift the ball over goalkeeper Khaled Ben Hassine for the decisive 2‑1 lead.
Late pressure from Marsa was contained by a disciplined defence led by centre‑back Hamdi Ben Ali.
Statistical Snapshot
- Possession: Club Africain 58 % – Marsa 42 %
- Shots (on target): Africain 14 (7) – Marsa 9 (4)
- Pass accuracy: Africain 84 % – Marsa 78 %
- Corners: Africain 6 – Marsa 3
Player ratings highlighted Mohamed Mézari (8.5/10) for his decisive contribution, with Youssef Trabelsi close behind (8.2/10). For Marsa, Sofiane Aouadi earned the highest rating on his side (7.8/10).
Team Background
Club Africain Overview
Founded in 1920, Club Africain is one of Tunisia’s most decorated clubs, boasting 13 league titles and a passionate fanbase. Under head coach Lotfi Ben Saïd, the side has adopted a high‑pressing, fluid attacking style that has revived their title ambitions after recent under‑performance.
AS Marsa Overview
Established in 1933, AS Marsa often fluctuates between the top two tiers. Coach Moez Ben Jannet has emphasized defensive solidity and set‑piece efficiency this season, aiming for a respectable league finish and a possible cup run.
Implications for the Ligue 1 Title Race
The three points lift Club Africain to 44 points, just two behind leaders Espérance de Tunis with ten games remaining, signaling a tightening championship battle. Their recent form—four wins, one draw, one loss in six matches—suggests sustained momentum.
For Marsa, the defeat leaves them on 28 points in ninth place, five points off the coveted top‑six cutoff. Upcoming mid‑table clashes will be crucial to halt the slide and avoid a relegation fight.
Looking Ahead
Club Africain travels to Stade Gabèsien next, a match that could propel them into the league lead if their attacking fluency continues. AS Marsa hosts Olympique Béja, a fixture that will test their ability to rebound and secure vital points.
As the season approaches its climax, Club Africain’s win over Marsa reinforces their status as genuine contenders, while AS Marsa faces a pivotal juncture that will define their ambitions for the remainder of the campaign.
