AFCON 2025: Coach praises Tunisia’s late surge against Eagles

Coach Sami Trabelsi of Tunisia has expressed disappointment amid optimism after the 2-3 loss of the Carthage Eagles to the Super Eagles of Nigeria in their second round group stage match at the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 Group C clash.

He said the strong finish showed the capacity to challenge top teams when they control possession and impose playing style.

Nigeria stormed into a 3-0 lead and dictated early exchanges before Tunisia’s spirited response transformed the contest into a tense finale.

Goals from Montassar Talbi and Ali Abdi reignited Tunisian belief, forcing Nigeria to rely on composure to preserve their advantage.

Man-of-the-Match Ademola Lookman inspired Nigeria with two assists and a goal, highlighting the Super Eagles’ attacking efficiency.

In spite of the defeat, Tunisia dominated the closing stages, creating chances that Trabelsi said could have altered the outcome.

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The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Nigeria now top Group C with six points, while Tunisia face a decisive tie against Tanzania in Rabat.

Trabelsi said: “There is bitterness because we believed in a comeback. 

“In the last 30 minutes, we played at a very high level and created many chances.”

He said the defeat underlined areas for improvement rather than a lack of belief in his team’s quality.

The coach added: “When we impose our style and keep the ball, we can compete with any opponent. 

“That is the positive we take from this match.”

Trabelsi admitted that losing key duels early allowed Nigeria to build their advantage.

He said: “We did not start well. 

“We lost too many duels, especially from crosses, and that cost us. 

“Once we began winning those duels, we put them under pressure.”

Trabelsi added that tactical substitutions were aimed at increasing attacking penetration without disrupting team balance.

He said: “The players on the pitch were performing. 

“The next match is decisive, and we must take this intensity into it.”

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