Gabon U23 target strong start against Tunisia in Africa Cup of Nations qualifier

The Gabon U23 team have arrived in Tunisia determined to make a positive start to their Africa Cup of Nations U23 qualifying play-off against the Carthage Eagles.

The first leg will be played on Thursday, 12 November at 18:00 at the Stade Olympique de Sousse, with Gabon seeking a result that will put them in control of the tie before the return match.

Ondo confident in Gabon squad

Gabon assistant coach Brice Ondo says his players are in a positive frame of mind after their preparations for the opening fixture.

Speaking in an interview with Gaboneco, Ondo said the squad had worked well and was approaching the match in good condition.

The Pantheres U23 will now look to turn that confidence into a strong performance against a Tunisia side enjoying home advantage.

Gabon are aiming to make life difficult for Tunisia from the first leg and keep their qualification hopes firmly in their hands ahead of the return in Franceville.

Victory the main objective

The visitors’ priority is to win in Sousse, although Ondo also regards a draw as a favourable outcome before the second meeting between the teams.

The result will be particularly important because the two sides will meet again five days after the first leg, when Tunisia travel to Franceville for the decisive return match.

Gabon therefore want to secure the best possible result in Tunisia before completing the tie on home ground.