Tunisia at AFCON 2023: aspirations, achievements, and icons
Tunisia, making its 21st appearance, emerges as a seasoned contender. With a rich history, the Carthage Eagles, finalists thrice, aim to secure their second crown. Here’s an in-depth look at everything you need to know about Tunisia as they embark on this footballing journey.
Nation at a Glance:
- Capital: Tunis
- Surface Area: 163,610 km²
- Population: 11,803,588
- Official Language: Arabic
- Inhabitants: Tunisian
- Motto: Freedom, Order, Justice
- Team Nickname: Les Aigles de Carthage
AFCON History:
- Titles: 1
- Final Appearances: 3
- Participations Before AFCON 2023: 20
- Host Country: 3
AFCON Journey Through Time: Tunisia’s AFCON history is a tapestry of triumphs and challenges, reaching its zenith in 2004 when they clinched the title on home soil, defeating Morocco in the final (2-1). With 20 appearances, they hold the record for the most consecutive AFCON participations (15) between 1994 and 2021. Notable victories include two resounding 4-0 wins against Ethiopia (1965) and Mauritania (2022), while their largest defeat, a 3-0 setback, came at the hands of Cameroon (2000), Guinea (2006), and Côte d’Ivoire (2006).
Star Player: Youssef Msakni: At the forefront of Tunisia’s AFCON campaign is the charismatic winger and team captain, Youssef Msakni. Born in Tunisia in 1990, Msakni, now 33, has represented the national team in seven AFCON tournaments, amassing 25 appearances. A stalwart of the squad, he aims to guide Tunisia further than their 2021 quarter-final finish. Currently playing for Al-Arabi SC, Youssef Msakni stands as one of Tunisia’s offensive linchpins.
The Coach: Jalel Kadri: Guiding Tunisia in their quest is Jalel Kadri, appointed head coach post the AFCON 2021. Aged 52, Kadri brings a wealth of coaching experience, having managed various clubs in Tunisia, as well as coaching stints in the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia. His tenure with the national team has seen 12 wins, 4 draws, and 3 defeats. Under his leadership, Tunisia secured AFCON 2023 qualification with 13 points from six games.
AFCON 2023 Schedule – Group E:
- January 16: Tunisia vs. Namibia
- January 20: Tunisia vs. Mali
- January 24: South Africa vs. Tunisia
As Tunisia braces for AFCON 2023, the blend of seasoned campaigners and emerging talent aims to script a new chapter in the nation’s footballing legacy. The Carthage Eagles, under Jalel Kadri’s guidance, aspire to soar to new heights, navigating through a challenging Group E and vying for continental glory. The footballing world eagerly awaits the unfolding drama on the pitches of Côte d’Ivoire.
