Espérance de Tunis goalkeeper Béchir Ben Saïd will be absent from Tunisia’s squad for the upcoming international window, as confirmed by the “Eagles of Carthage” coaching staff. His absence comes as Tunisia gears up for critical Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Madagascar and Gambia, with their AFCON 2025 hopes on the line.
Ben Saïd’s omission appears linked to a lack of recent playing time at his club, where the 28-year-old has seen limited action.
So far this season, he has made only a single appearance, stepping in against Somalia’s Dekedaha FC during the return leg of the CAF Champions League preliminary round.
This limited game time has reportedly led Tunisia’s head coach, Kais Yaâkoubi, to explore alternative options for the upcoming FIFA international break in November.
With Ben Saïd out of the running, the Tunisian football federation has already begun weighing potential replacements.
Coach Yaâkoubi faces a difficult decision with three prominent names being considered: Sami Helal of Stade Tunisien, Achraf Krir from Club Athlétique Bizertin, and Moez Ben Chrifia, the reliable figure from Olympique de Béja.
Each candidate brings unique qualities to the national team setup, leaving Yaâkoubi with a selection dilemma.
Helal, who has demonstrated solid form this season, is a consistent performer and known for his sharp reflexes and shot-stopping ability.
Krir, meanwhile, has gained recognition for his commanding presence in goal and is noted for his confident handling of high-pressure situations.
Ben Chrifia, a more seasoned option, provides experience and leadership, having played at the international level multiple times and serving as a steady presence between the posts for Olympique de Béja.
Tunisia’s qualification campaign has reached a critical juncture, with the team needing strong performances in their upcoming matches.
The absence of Ben Saïd, a mainstay in Tunisia’s goalkeeping lineup in recent years, is a significant change for the national team.
The coaching staff will be looking for a replacement who can provide stability and resilience, qualities that are essential as the team navigates its AFCON qualifying path.
Tunisia, a former AFCON champion, is currently under pressure to secure its place in the 2025 tournament.
These qualifiers will be closely watched as Tunisia works to avoid any missteps in its journey to the continental competition.
With a fresh face likely to step into the goalkeeper position, the squad will aim to bring home victories in both matchups, keeping alive their aspirations for another shot at the Africa Cup of Nations.
🚨 La liste de Faouzi Benzarti pour la double confrontation face aux Comores ! 🇹🇳🦅 pic.twitter.com/nFcJfxFBhe
— Noussour 🇹🇳 (@NoussourTN) October 4, 2024
