Tunisian football is witnessing a seismic shift in the 2025-2026 season. After a dramatic 26th round, Club Africain has officially seized the lead of the Professional League 1 with 58 points. This lead was secured after a clinical 2-0 victory over JS Kairouan, capitalizing on a slip-up by their arch-rivals, Esperance de Tunis, who drew in Bizerte. With only a few rounds remaining, Club Africain is now mathematically and psychologically the favorite to win the title with a 90% probability.
The Round 26 Masterclass: Clinical Efficiency
In their encounter with JS Kairouan, Club Africain displayed a championship-winning mentality. The breakthrough came early in the 10th minute through Hamza Khadraoui, whose goal settled the nerves and put the team in control. Despite Kairouan’s attempts to equalize, the tactical discipline instilled by Faouzi Benzarti kept the defense impenetrable. In the 83rd minute, Firas Chaouat doubled the lead, securing three vital points. Combined with Esperance’s 1-1 draw against CA Bizertin, Club Africain is now two points clear at the top of the table.
Factor 1: The “People of Club Africain” – The Invisible Force
The secret to this season’s success lies in the stands. Club Africain’s fan base is widely regarded as the most loyal and influential in the country. In 2026, their impact has transcended mere cheering; they have become the club’s financial backbone through various donation campaigns (“Latkha”). On the pitch, the psychological pressure exerted by the fans makes every away game feel like a home match. Statistical analysis shows that opponents’ pass accuracy drops significantly when playing under the roar of the Club Africain crowd. This synergy between the fans and the players is the ultimate guarantee for the upcoming matches.
Factor 2: “The Dean” Faouzi Benzarti – Tactical Genius
You cannot talk about the 2026 standings without mentioning the “General,” Faouzi Benzarti. As the most decorated coach in Tunisian football history with over 10 league titles, he has brought “Realism” back to Bab Jedid. Benzarti’s high-pressing style and focus on physical endurance have made Club Africain the most resilient team in the league. His ability to revitalize players like Chaouat and Khadraoui proves that the team possesses a tactical mastermind capable of outclassing any opponent in the final stretch.
The Upcoming Challenge: AS Soliman and the Stadium Controversy
All eyes are now on the upcoming match against AS Soliman. This fixture has become a major administrative issue. AS Soliman’s management has officially protested the League’s decision to ban them from playing at the El Kram stadium, claiming it is unfit, despite having played three previous games there without issue. For Club Africain, this is a “Championship Final.” Benzarti is urging his squad to ignore the “behind-the-scenes” politics and focus solely on the 90 minutes. A victory here, especially if Esperance continues to struggle, could effectively end the title race.
Conclusion: The Trophy Returns Home
With the tactical maturity of Benzarti, the unmatched passion of its fans, and the stumble of its rivals, Club Africain is on the verge of a historic achievement. The 2026 title is heading towards the “Bab Jedid” district.
Who is currently leading the Tunisian League?
Club Africain with 58 points.
Who scored in the last match against JSK?
Hamza Khadraoui and Firas Chaouat.
What is the controversy about AS Soliman?
The League refused to let them play their home game against Club Africain at El Kram stadium.