Nigeria and Tunisia are poised for a pivotal Group C encounter in the Africa Cup of Nations on Saturday, with both sides eyeing a strong position for advancement after securing opening victories in the tournament hosted by Morocco.
The Super Eagles edged Tanzania 2-1 in their debut match, while the Carthage Eagles triumphed 3-1 over Uganda, setting the stage for a high-stakes clash at Fes’ Stade de Fes that could influence their paths to the knockout rounds.
Nigeria, under coach Eric Chelle, will lean on Napoli striker Victor Osimhen to break his goal drought in the competition, flanked by Atalanta’s Ademola Lookman — who netted against Tanzania — and AC Milan’s Samuel Chukwueze for width and invention.
Midfield duties fall to captain Wilfred Ndidi for defensive solidity, with Arsenal’s Alex Iwobi orchestrating plays, as Celtic’s Calvin Bassey and Plymouth’s Semi Ajayi shore up the backline.
Tunisia, led by Sami Trabelsi, boasts a mix of veterans and emerging talents, including captain Ferjani Sassi in midfield control and Manchester United loanee Hannibal Mejbri for dynamism.
Eintracht Frankfurt’s Elias Achouri, fresh off a brace against Uganda, poses a key threat upfront, backed by the defensive experience of Al Ahly’s Ali Maaloul and Trabzonspor’s Dylan Bronn.
The 2004 AFCON winners have already booked their spot at the 2026 World Cup, adding confidence to their campaign.
The fixture revives a storied rivalry dating back over six decades, marked by dramatic moments such as pitch abandonments, fierce duels and penalty deciders.
In 21 senior meetings across all competitions, Tunisia hold a slight edge with seven wins to Nigeria’s six and eight draws, though the Super Eagles have fared better in recent AFCON clashes, claiming three victories in six encounters.
Notable past games include Nigeria’s 4-2 group-stage win in 2000, Tunisia’s penalty triumph in the 2004 semi-finals, and the Carthage Eagles’ 1-0 upset over Nigeria in the 2022 last-16.
Saturday’s match promises tactical intrigue as both former internationals at the helm seek to outwit each other in a contest anticipated to unfold at a brisk pace.
