AFCON 2015 – Tunisia vs. Cape Verde: A Grudge Match Reignited
It was bound to happen. Sixteen months after their last tense encounter, Tunisia and Cape Verde meet again — this time on the grand stage of the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations, kicking off their Group B campaigns this Sunday at 7 p.m. GMT.
Tunisia: A Point to Prove
The Carthage Eagles have been a regular fixture at the AFCON since 1994 and even lifted the trophy in 2004. However, recent years have seen mixed fortunes. In the 2014 World Cup qualifiers, Tunisia were eliminated by Cape Verde on the pitch—only to be reinstated due to an administrative blunder by the Blue Sharks, who fielded a suspended player.
Even so, Tunisia failed to reach the World Cup after falling to Cameroon in the playoffs.
Under new coach Georges Leekens, Tunisia has undergone a transformation. The team topped their group during AFCON 2015 qualifiers, buoyed by rising talents like Ferjani Sassi and Yassine Chikhaoui. With improved form and cohesion, Tunisia will be motivated by both redemption and ambition.
Cape Verde: Rising With Confidence
Make no mistake — Cape Verde is no longer the underdog. After stunning Tunisia in the qualifiers and qualifying top of their AFCON 2015 group ahead of Zambia, the Blue Sharks have proven their consistency.
Led by coach Rui Águas, the team is packed with European-based talent, including Ryan Mendes (Lille, France) and Heldon Ramos (Sporting CP, Portugal). Cape Verde currently ranks 7th among African nations and continues to develop tactically and technically.
With players spread across competitive leagues in Portugal, France, Romania, Spain, and more, this is a squad with both experience and momentum. They aim to make a deep run in the tournament after a strong showing in 2013.
What to Expect
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Tunisia seeks revenge and a strong start to prove its evolution under Leekens.
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Cape Verde looks to confirm its status as one of Africa’s emerging powers.
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Both teams topped their qualifying groups and boast strong midfield cores and disciplined defenses.
It promises to be a fierce and open encounter, where small margins could make the difference.
📍 Kickoff: Sunday, January 18 – 7:00 p.m. GMT
🏟️ Venue: Estadio de Ebebiyin
