Tunisia Refuses to Apologize to CAF Over AFCON Controversy
The Tunisian Football Federation (FTF) has firmly rejected the Confederation of African Football’s (CAF) demand for a public apology, following the explosive aftermath of Tunisia’s 2015 Africa Cup of Nations quarter-final loss to Equatorial Guinea.
According to Mosaique FM, the FTF held a crucial meeting on Wednesday, during which it decided not to issue an apology to CAF, despite the governing body’s ultimatum to respond by February 5 at midnight.
CAF had threatened Tunisia with possible exclusion from the 2017 AFCON qualifiers if it failed to apologize or present “irrefutable evidence” supporting its accusations of bias and corruption. Tunisia was also fined $50,000 for what CAF described as the “insolent, aggressive and unacceptable behavior” of its players and officials during and after the match, which featured a highly controversial penalty decision in the final minutes.
This defiant stance by the FTF underscores just how deeply the quarter-final refereeing decision—seen by many as scandalous—has shaken Tunisian football. With the deadline now expired and no apology sent, Tunisia could soon face serious disciplinary consequences, including a potential ban from the next tournament cycle.
CAF’s next move is now awaited with great anticipation—and concern from Tunisian fans and officials alike.
