Tunisian Esperance coach Nabil Maloul announced his resignation today following a 0-3 defeat against Egypt’s Al-Ahly in the first leg of their African Champions League semi-final at the Rats Stadium in Tunisia. The former Esperance coach and player announced his resignation on his official Facebook page.

“I have decided to withdraw and submit my resignation to the president of the club,” Maloul wrote. The coach, who previously won the African Champions League title with Esperance in 2011, added, “I understand Esperance’s sadness and disappointment after this heavy defeat and I apologize to all the fans for not being able to bring joy last night. The hearts of our ancient fans.”

He added, “In the recent period, for me and other technical structures and players, the task is not easy for many reasons that cannot be explained in the current situation, but I have tried with all my energy to find solutions. , overcome difficulties and achieve better results.” Esperance is going through its worst period at this point and its results rocked the local league as it lost against Sfaxien and Africa respectively before facing Al-Ahly. The team is fifth in the crowning group standings, seven points behind leaders Etoile du Sahel (18 points). Esperance are competing for the Tunisian Cup title, where they will meet Olympic side Beji in the final round. Esperance lost 3-0 against Al-Ahly yesterday, their sixth loss against an Egyptian side in African competition in Tunisia.