Tunisia’s 3–2 defeat to Nigeria in their second Group C match at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations may ultimately be remembered less for the scoreline and more for what it revealed about the Carthage Eagles.
Against one of the tournament favourites, Tunisia showed resilience, tactical adaptability and a growing pool of players capable of influencing games at the highest level, offering encouragement ahead of the decisive final round.
Coming into the contest on the back of a 3–1 win over Uganda, Tunisia understood that a positive result against Nigeria would place them firmly in control of their qualification fate.
For long periods, however, the Super Eagles dictated the tempo, using their physicality and attacking depth to stretch the Tunisian defence. When Nigeria struck their third goal in the 67th minute, it appeared to confirm their dominance and put the contest beyond reach.
Yet Tunisia’s response was telling. Rather than retreat, the team found renewed urgency and belief, driven largely by the influence of Hannibal Mejbri.
The midfielder’s performance stood out for its intensity and authority, as he combined tireless running with composure in possession. His delivery from a set piece in the 74th minute, expertly met by Montassar Talbi, provided more than just a goal.
It shifted the momentum and reignited the Tunisian bench and supporters, reinforcing Mejbri’s status as a central figure in the team’s identity.
The impact from the substitutes further underlined Tunisia’s evolving depth. Sebastian Tounkti, introduced late, brought speed and directness that unsettled Nigeria’s back line and created space in wide areas. His willingness to take on defenders and make aggressive runs gave Tunisia a sharper attacking edge during the closing stages.
Alongside him, Ismail Gharbi impressed with his calmness under pressure, circulating the ball efficiently and helping the team maintain structure while pushing forward.
Tunisia’s second goal, converted from the penalty spot by Ali Abdi in the 87th minute following a VAR review, capped a spirited finish that contrasted sharply with the earlier phases of the match.
Although the comeback fell short, it left a positive impression of a team unwilling to accept defeat passively.
With Nigeria already through to the knockout phase, Tunisia remain second in the group and in control of their own destiny.
More importantly, the performance suggested a side developing solutions and confidence. Despite the loss, the Carthage Eagles emerged with renewed belief that their blend of experience and emerging talent can still carry them deep into the tournament.
