Nabil Maaloul – Taraji coach, tunisia
The African champions had pulled one back through Ossama Darragi’s second-half strike, but were unable to restore parity despite registering 20 attempts on goal.
“We were unlucky today,” said Ma’lul in a post-match press conference.
“I expected more, because we can do better, but the team did a great job in the end.”
Ma’lul, who enjoyed two long stints with Esperance in the 1980s and 90s before becoming the team’s coach last December, also regretted two controversial offside calls that invalidated goals for his team.
“I won’t criticise the referee, we scored twice and both times they called it offside,” the 48-year-old continued.
“I am not sure if the second was a legitimate goal or not but, even if it was a mistake, that happens. Just like the players make mistake, so do the referees.”
The former midfielder also apologised for the actions of Esperance supporters who, at the end of the match, threw missiles at Al Sadd players and attempted to invade the pitch.
“Things such as [the scuffles with security] are not good, but such things happen at times,” Ma’lul added.
“Al Sadd are our friends, and such things shouldn’t happen, and I am very sorry for it.”