Tunisia’s women’s national football team face a pivotal test on Thursday evening when they take on Algeria in their second group-stage match at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Casablanca.
With Group B already shaping up to be fiercely competitive, Tunisia head into the encounter bottom of the standings. Nigeria and Algeria both sit on three points, while Botswana, like Tunisia, are yet to register a win.
The North African showdown at the Père-Jégo Stadium will kick off at 5:00 p.m. local time.
Having suffered defeat in their opening fixture, Tunisia know that anything less than a victory against Algeria will significantly damage their hopes of reaching the knockout phase.
This match, therefore, is more than just a regional derby—it is a must-win scenario for the Tunisian side.
Despite being on the back foot, the team is determined to turn things around. Their coaching staff have focused preparations on tightening the defence and improving their attacking transitions, both of which fell short in their opening match.
A loss against Algeria would not only end Tunisia’s chances of progressing but could also mark a disappointing step back for a squad that had arrived in Morocco with aspirations of reaching at least the quarter-finals.
Algeria, meanwhile, are looking to build on their solid start to the tournament. With three points already in the bag, a second consecutive victory would all but seal their progression to the next round.
Their confidence will be high, but they are fully aware of the unpredictable nature of derby matches—especially on a stage as intense as the Women’s AFCON.
The Algerian team, known for their physicality and pressing game, will aim to dominate the midfield and unsettle Tunisia’s rhythm early in the match.
Tunisia, for their part, are expected to rely on their technical midfielders to gain control of possession and limit Algeria’s chances on the break.
Beyond the tactical battles, there is a historical and emotional weight to this fixture. Matches between Tunisia and Algeria—whether in men’s or women’s football—are often marked by high intensity, passionate fan engagement, and a fierce desire to win.
The two neighbouring nations share deep footballing rivalries that extend beyond the pitch, adding an extra layer of pressure and significance to the contest.
Later in the evening, Group B’s other fixture will see tournament favourites Nigeria go up against Botswana at 8:00 p.m. Nigeria, boasting a rich pedigree in women’s football, are expected to be one of the dominant forces in this tournament and will look to secure a second win to strengthen their hold on the group.
As for Tunisia, all eyes will be on whether they can rise to the occasion and keep their AFCON hopes alive. A positive result against Algeria would not only restore belief within the squad but also open up the group, setting up a tense final round of fixtures.
Thursday’s clash in Casablanca promises to be a defining moment in Tunisia’s campaign—and potentially a turning point for a team eager to make its mark on the continental stage.
