Wahbi Khazri: “Algeria-Tunisia, a Big Maghreb Clash to Prepare for AFCON”
As part of their preparations for the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Tunisia’s Carthage Eagles will face the Algerian Fennecs in a high-profile warm-up match on January 11 in Monastir. This friendly will serve as a key test for both sides ahead of the continental tournament in Equatorial Guinea.
Their last competitive meeting took place during AFCON 2013 in South Africa, where Tunisia edged Algeria 1-0 thanks to a late goal from Youssef Msakni.
Speaking to Le Buteur, Wahbi Khazri, forward for Girondins de Bordeaux, expressed his excitement about the friendly:
“It’s a pleasure to play against brothers to prepare for the next African meeting. We know we will face the best African team currently, with many very good players, so it’s always good to measure ourselves against Algeria.”
Khazri considers the match more than a warm-up; it’s a benchmark for Tunisia’s ambitions:
“Algeria–Tunisia is a great Maghreb clash that can only do us good in terms of preparation. To win an African Cup, you have to pass your tests against big nations like Algeria.”
Despite being drawn in what many consider a more favorable Group B—with Zambia, Cape Verde, and DR Congo—Khazri remains cautious:
“We can say Tunisia inherited a less strong group, but in Africa, there are no small teams anymore. It’s always very difficult to confirm your status as a favorite because of the conditions we all know.”
Khazri concluded by reaffirming Tunisia’s objectives:
“We hope to go as far as possible. The first objective is to get out of the group stage—then we’ll see.”
With momentum building and ambitions high, Tunisia’s clash with Algeria will be more than just a friendly—it will be a crucial test of form, depth, and resilience ahead of the biggest competition in African football.
