Esperance sportive de Tunis have imposed a substantial fine on Algeria international Youcef Belaili before their decisive CAF Champions League meeting with Al-Swehly SC.

The disciplinary action follows Belaili’s dismissal during Esperance’s 1-0 defeat by the Libyan club in the first leg of the second preliminary round in Misrata, Libya.

The incident occurred in the second half after Al-Swehly were awarded a penalty. Belaili strongly challenged the referee’s decision and was shown a second yellow card, resulting in his dismissal.

Esperance’s management applied the club’s internal regulations, which provide for a financial penalty when a player is sent off during a match. The size of the fine has not been disclosed.

The red card has left Esperance without one of their key attacking players for a match they must win by at least two goals to progress directly to the next stage of the competition.

Having lost the first leg 1-0, the Tunisian side face the task of overturning the deficit in front of their supporters at Rades. Belaili’s absence means the club’s attacking options will have to find another way to change the tie’s direction.

Esperance have also reportedly contacted the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to challenge the refereeing of Jean-Pierre Nguiene and seek the cancellation of Belaili’s dismissal.

That request adds another element to an already crucial return fixture, with the Tunisian club’s progress in the 2026-2027 CAF Champions League at stake.