Tunisia seek response as Botswana visit in 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers

Tunisia host Botswana in the second round of 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying on Monday, with both sides looking for their first victory after drawing their opening matches.

The game will be played at the Hamadi Agrebi Stadium in Rades, beginning at 20:00 local time (GMT+1). Kick-off is scheduled for 21:00 in France and Botswana.

In Tunisia, the match will be shown by Watania and beIN Sports Men. Viewers in France can watch it on beIN Sports 1.

Tunisia arrive under pressure after being held to a 1-1 draw by Uganda in their opening qualifier. The result was a disappointing start for the Carthage Eagles and new head coach Mouine Chaabani, who is overseeing a team in the process of rebuilding.

The hosts had taken the lead against Uganda when Adem Arous scored from a corner in the first half. However, Tunisia struggled to create further opportunities and were punished when Rogers Mato equalised in the 68th minute.

That result extended the uncertainty surrounding the national team following a difficult 2026 World Cup campaign. Chaabani has called for patience as he attempts to establish his side, but Tunisia will be expected to respond against Botswana.

Botswana also showed promise in their first match, despite failing to secure victory. The Zebras travelled to Tripoli to face Libya and appeared on course for a positive result after Tumisang Orebonye scored twice, in the 30th and 42nd minutes.

Libya, though, fought back and rescued a draw in the final minutes, denying Botswana what would have been an impressive away win.

The two teams now meet in a group where the qualification race carries particular importance. Only one qualifying place is available because Uganda is included as one of the host nations.

As a result, a victory at the Hamadi Agrebi Stadium would give either Tunisia or Botswana an early advantage and provide the winner with the opportunity to properly launch their campaign.