Tunisia pulled off a dramatic 1-0 win over Senegal on the 4th day of the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, thanks to a 94th-minute goal by Ferjani Sassi. The victory sees Georges Leekens’ Carthage Eagles take sole leadership of Group G, ahead of the Lions of Teranga.
🔹 Georges Leekens Reacts:
Tunisia’s Belgian coach acknowledged the team’s good fortune, but also praised the spirit and discipline of his players:
“I think we should be happy with these three points… It’s true that we were lucky, but I think the boys worked with the means they had.”
He gave credit to the Tunisian public, whose unwavering support in Monastir helped lift the team in a tightly contested encounter:
“Thanks to the public who supported us, we came out well… I’m very happy for the group.”
🔹 Tactical Success Despite Absentees:
Leekens opted for a five-man defensive line, a risky strategy that ultimately paid off. Despite missing several key players, Tunisia held strong under sustained pressure from Senegal, especially in the second half.
He added:
“We had absentees like Senegal… We suffered, but we succeeded in our game plan.”
And showed humility toward his counterpart:
“I have to congratulate Alain Giresse for the way he plays, for the class of his team. But it’s football that also won.”
🔹 Cautious Optimism:
Despite leading Group G, Leekens remained grounded:
“We are not yet qualified. There are two matches and six points left to win. So, we must continue to have the confidence of our fans.”
🧠 Summary:
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Match Winner: Ferjani Sassi (94th minute)
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Tunisia now leads Group G
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Leekens’ tactical setup with five defenders held off Senegal’s attacks
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Tunisia still needs more points to secure qualification
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Mutual respect shown between Leekens and Senegal coach Alain Giresse
This was a psychological boost and tactical win for Tunisia, but qualification is not yet sealed — and the pressure remains high for the final two matches.
