South Africa international Elias Mokwana started from the bench as his team Esperance fell 2-0 against Flamengo in Group D of the Fifa Club World Cup game played at the Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, on Tuesday morning.
The Tunisian heavyweights were the second African team to play two days after Al Ahly, and Lionel Messi's Inter Miami played to a goalless draw in a Group A outing played on Sunday.
Coach Maher Kanzari opted against starting Bafana Bafana international Elias Mokwana, who was named on the substitute's bench.
De Arrascaeta's strike makes the difference in the first half
It was the South Americans who took an early command of the game, denying the North Africans possession in search of an early goal. From the outset, The Evil One looked settled and bypassed their opponents with ease.
The Brazilian heavyweights came close several times, but had to wait until the 17th minute to find the back of the net. Giorgian de Arrascaeta started a good move in the final third before rushing into the 18-yard area to complete Luiz Araujo's pass to make it 1-0 in favour of his team.
A minute later, goalkeeper Bechir Ben Said had to be at his best to stop a stinging shot from Gerson, who was left unmarked in the area.
It could have been more in the first half, but Esperance opted to put up a low block and rely on counter attacks.
Second half
In their bid to get venom and be more effective after the break, the Red and Yellow introduced Bafana Bafana international Mokwana alongside Ivorian Abdramane Konate.
But it was Flamengo who showed intent, which almost paid dividends in the 52nd minute, but Ben Saida denied him once with another attempt seconds later, missing the target by inches.
Flamengo custodian Agustin Rossi was called to action in the 67th minute, pulling a great save to deny the dangerous Youcef Belaili, who had managed to get past the defenders.
Three minutes later, Flamengo doubled their advantage courtesy of Araujo who received an intelligent assist from former Chelsea and Arsenal star Jorginho.
The next assignment for Mokwana and his team will be on Friday, June 20, against Los Angeles FC, who fell 2-0 against Chelsea in their initial Group D game.
