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Esperance suffer key player's absence ahead of Ahly match Tunisian Esperance lose services of midfielder Youssef Msakni in run-up to Sunday's CAF Champions League clash with Egypt's Ahly
Esperance of Tunisia will have to do without midfielder Youssef Msakni – who has just undergone an appendectomy – when they face Egyptian side Ahly in the first leg of CAF Champions League finals on Sunday. "Msakni underwent surgery to remove his appendix on Thursday," Esperance spokesman told Reuters. "He must undergo rehabilitation for one week before returning to action and rejoining team training," the spokesman added. The 22-year-old midfielder helped Esperance reach the CAF Champions League finals, scoring three goals for the Tunisian side this tournament season. CAF Champions League titleholders Esperance are hoping to clinch a second consecutive African title when they come to Cairo to face Ahly for the first leg of the African final at Alexandria's Borg Al-Arab Stadium on Sunday. A return match will be held in Tunisia on 17 November. Esperance reached the final after eliminating formidable Congolese side Mazembe, booking their place in the final after a 4-3 aggregate victory over Nigerian guests Sunshine Stars. (For more sports news and updates, follow Ahram Online Sports on Twitter at@AO Sports and on Facebook atAhramOnlineSports)