Georges Leekens Cautious Ahead of Tunisia’s Crucial Clash with Senegal
Following a goalless draw in Dakar last Friday, Tunisia’s head coach Georges Leekens is preparing his Carthage Eagles for what he expects to be a tough and finely balanced rematch against Senegal on Wednesday, in the 4th round of the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
Despite the positive result away from home, Leekens is fully aware of the threat posed by the Lions of Teranga, and is urging his players to approach the game with tactical discipline and physical readiness:
“We are going to face an opponent as good in attack as in defense, and we must not expect any gifts from them. That is why we must be very vigilant and well disciplined tactically, in order not to make mistakes that could cost us dearly,” said Leekens during a pre-match press conference.
The Belgian coach acknowledged that both sides played it safe in the first leg:
“No coach wanted to reveal his cards in Dakar, and the return match will be just as undecided. I don’t think Senegal will change much in their game plan. What matters most is that we are physically ready and able to gain the upper hand.”
Leekens also called for strong home support in Monastir, referencing the energy from the stands in Tunisia’s 2-1 win over Botswana:
“I hope the fans will come out in even greater numbers to encourage and support the players morally.”
Heading into this pivotal fixture, Tunisia and Senegal are joint leaders of their group with 7 points each. Egypt trails with 3 points, while Botswana remains at the bottom with no points. A victory on Wednesday could be decisive in securing early qualification for either side.
