Tunisia’s Mastouri double cancelled out as Botswana earn a point in CAN 2027 qualifier

Tunisia were held to a second successive draw in the CAN 2027 qualifiers after Botswana fought back for a 2-2 draw at Stade Hamadi Agrebi in Rades on Monday.

The result came on the second matchday and marked another home disappointment for the Carthage Eagles, who were unable to hold on to a one-goal lead after taking control of the match.

Botswana went ahead in the 38th minute when Mohamed Nasraoui inadvertently turned the ball past his own goalkeeper following a mistake in the Tunisian defence.

Tunisia responded quickly, with Hazem Mastouri restoring parity five minutes later. The forward rose to meet the opportunity and headed the hosts level before half-time.

Mastouri struck again shortly after the interval to put Tunisia in front. He reacted quickest to a favourable situation in the 50th minute and completed his double to make it 2-1.

However, the home side’s advantage lasted only until the hour mark. Lebogang Ditsile took advantage of a run behind the Tunisian defence before going through to beat the goalkeeper and bring Botswana level at 2-2.

Tunisia pressed for a late winner and created several dangerous opportunities in the closing stages, but could not find a decisive third goal.

The Carthage Eagles ultimately had to settle for another share of the points in front of their home supporters.