Mind Games and Minutes: Will Msakni Return Before the CAF Champions League Showdown?

Fitness Update: Msakni's Return Is Not Yet Guaranteed

Esperance's coach Patrice Bomil said Youssef Msakni needs more time and consistent training before he can feature in Sunday's CAF Champions League quarterfinal first leg against Al Ahly.

The Tunisian forward missed the latest win over Marsa, and had been expected to join the squad for the Al Ahly tie.

Bomil told a Tunisian newspaper that Msakni needs more time before taking part in matches.

I spoke at length with Msakni; he still needs time and regular training to be able to play, Bomil said. Msakni is not lacking in quality, but he is not yet physically ready.

Match Logistics

The first leg will be played in Tunis at Rades Stadium on Sunday, while the return leg is scheduled for March 21 at Cairo International Stadium.

Bomil's remarks come as Esperance prepare for a high-stakes CAF Champions League clash against Al Ahly that could influence the quarterfinals race.

Sniper punchline 1: If Msakni plays, the stadium might file a power outage report from all the sparks; if not, at least we’ll have popcorn with extra suspense.

Sniper punchline 2: In football timing is everything—apparently Msakni’s calendar still has a few “tentative” stamps before matchday.