Leekens’ Prophetic Call as Sassi Seals Dramatic Win for Tunisia
BBC Sport Africa – Tunis
Tunisia head coach Georges Leekens appeared to foresee the moment of glory before it happened. In the dying moments of a tense Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Senegal, Leekens sent on Ferjani Sassi with a clear message: he would score the winner.
Moments later, Sassi delivered.
The midfielder struck deep into added time to hand Tunisia a crucial 1-0 victory over the Lions of Teranga, propelling the Carthage Eagles to the top of their qualifying group. The late goal capped off a spirited performance in Rades and proved decisive in what had been a fiercely contested match.
“The coach told me when I came on that I was going to score tonight,” Sassi revealed after the match. And score he did — a dramatic finish that not only secured all three points but underscored Leekens’ tactical acumen and motivational skill.
With this victory, Tunisia now sits firmly at the top of Group G with 10 points, followed by Senegal on 7, Egypt with 6, and Botswana yet to register a point.
The win represents a major step forward in Tunisia’s campaign, putting them in pole position to qualify for the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations. The Carthage Eagles remain unbeaten in the group and have shown both resilience and attacking promise under Leekens’ leadership.
For Senegal, the late defeat was a bitter blow after a disciplined defensive display. However, they remain in contention with two matches still to play.
As the qualifying campaign heads into its final stretch, Tunisia’s last-gasp heroics — and Leekens’ uncanny prediction — will be remembered as one of the turning points of the group.
