Esperance’s head coach Tarek Thabet anticipates a tough battle when his team steps onto the pitch at Dar es Salaam’s Benjamin Mkapa Stadium to take on TP Mazembe of the Democratic Republic of the Congo in the first leg of their African Football League quarterfinal game.

According to Thabet, Mazembe has demonstrated that they are an improved group, and with a long history in continental football, they will not be taken advantage of.

“We have prepared very well and ready for the challenge.

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” We know it is not going to be easy because we are playing against a very good team.

“Mazembe has a lot of experience and we are also facing a team that is improving a lot,” the tactician said.

He added; “All my players are ready and we will fight to get a positive result from the game.”

Captain Moez Ben Cherifia feels the same way, saying they would need to be at their best to compete with the Congolese giants.

The shot stopper has urged his teammates to perform their best against Mazembe because he believes they can succeed while away from home.

“The coaches have done their work and we have also trained well.

“The tussle will be decided on the pitch.

” We know we are facing a tough game but we are ready for it.

“This is a big tournament and we also want to do well and win it,” Ben Cherifia said.

Taraji are looking forward to their fourth win over Esperance in the ninth meeting.