One of African football’s most enduring rivalries will take centre stage tonight as Nigeria and Tunisia face off in a decisive Group C clash at the 35th Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Fès, Morocco.
Both teams head into the encounter on the back of opening-day victories and know that another win could secure early qualification to the knockout rounds. The match also presents Nigeria with an opportunity to avenge their 2021 AFCON Round of 16 exit at the hands of Tunisia.
Nigeria began their campaign with a 2–1 victory over Tanzania, courtesy of goals from Semi Ajayi and Ademola Lookman. Tunisia were impressive in their first outing, defeating Uganda 3–1 with strikes from Ellyes Skhiri and a brace from Elias Achouri to go top of the group.
Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle, said his players are focused and physically ready for the test ahead.
“We tried to put more intensity in the training session. Tunisia is a great team and they are playing very well. Let’s go for this game,” he said at Friday’s pre-match press conference.
Chelle admitted there were aspects of the Tanzania match that needed improvement but praised his players’ response and mentality.
Team captain Wilfred Ndidi said the squad remains mentally strong, drawing motivation from their 2021 defeat to Tunisia.
“It was a painful loss in 2021. We don’t want to dwell on the past; we just want to face this one,” he said, adding that the team does not feel added pressure despite missing out on qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
On the Tunisian side, defender Moutassar Taibli acknowledged Nigeria’s attacking strength, led by Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman and Samuel Chukwueze, but expressed confidence in his team’s defensive organisation.
“With experience and concentration, the result will be positive,” he said.
Tonight’s encounter will take place at the Complexe Sportif de Fès, with kickoff scheduled for 9 p.m. Nigerian time. Historically, both nations are evenly matched, having met 21 times over the last 64 years, with six wins apiece and nine draws. At AFCON finals, Nigeria hold a slight edge with four victories to Tunisia’s two.
Their last meeting was at the 2021 AFCON, where Tunisia secured a 1–0 victory in the Round of 16, while Nigeria triumphed 1–0 in the 2019 third-place match.
The match will be broadcast on SuperSport channels on DStv, StarTimes, SportyTV, CAF TV, Channel 4, beIN Sports and other platforms. Malian referee Boubou Traoré will officiate the Group C contest.