Defensive crisis for Esperance before Ahli clash

Esperance coach Nabil Maaloul will have to reshuffle his backline ahead of this month’s Champions League clash with Ahli due to the absence of some key defenders.

Cameroonian center-half Yaya Banana has joined his national team for the U-20 World Cup, while defense partner Mohamed Ali is ruled out with injury.

According to Tunisian reports, Maaloul is unlikely to turn to former Zamalek defender Wissem Abdi due to his lack of match fitness.

The former Tunisia coach could be forced to move left-back Khalil Shammam to the center along with Walid Hichri.

Like their Egyptian counterparts, Esperance have retained the domestic title this month after beating Hammam-Lif 3-1.

The Tunis giants drew with MC Alger 1-1 in their Champions League Group B opener, while Ahli were denied by Wydad Casablanca in a 3-3 thriller at home.