Tunisia will adopt a more adventurous and expressive style when they face Nigeria in their crucial Group C encounter at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, according to head coach Sami Trabelsi, who has openly challenged his players to show greater freedom and collective involvement.
Speaking ahead of the meeting with the Super Eagles, Trabelsi addressed shortcomings from Tunisia’s previous outing, where he felt an overly rigid tactical structure limited the team’s attacking expression and individual impact.
The Carthage Eagles, he said, must strike a better balance between organisation and creativity if they want to compete at the highest level of the tournament.
Trabelsi acknowledged that the last performance lacked fluency and imagination, explaining that an approach focused only on defensive and offensive positioning restricted several players.
He insisted that Tunisia cannot rely solely on structure and discipline, especially against a well-rounded opponent such as Nigeria. Instead, he wants every player to contribute actively to the team’s attacking intentions.
The Tunisian coach also paid respect to Nigeria’s quality, describing the Super Eagles as strong across all areas of the pitch.
He highlighted their defensive solidity and attacking power, while making it clear that Tunisia would respond with a collective game plan rather than a conservative mindset.
Trabelsi stressed that involvement must extend beyond the back line, with midfielders and attackers encouraged to express themselves and take responsibility.
Preparation for the match has also brought encouraging signs on the fitness front.
Key forward Hazem has shown clear improvement during training sessions, regaining intensity and confidence as he moves closer to full match readiness.
His return to form offers Tunisia an important attacking option as they look to trouble Nigeria’s defence.
Despite Nigeria’s reputation, Trabelsi underlined that no team arrives at a major tournament without weaknesses.
Tunisia’s technical staff has carried out detailed analysis of the Super Eagles, identifying areas they believe can be exploited through intelligent movement and coordinated team play.
With qualification stakes rising in Group C, Tunisia’s approach against Nigeria could define their AFCON 2025 campaign.
Trabelsi’s message remains consistent: courage, expression, and collective responsibility will guide his side as they seek a result against one of Africa’s most respected football nations.
