AFCON 2025: Ferjani Sassi Targets Group C Top Spot Ahead Of Nigeria Clash
Tunisia captain Ferjani Sassi has declared that the Carthage Eagles’ objective is to finish top of Group C at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, as they prepare for a heavyweight showdown against Nigeria’s Super Eagles.
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Speaking at Friday’s pre-match press conference, Sassi reflected on Tunisia’s strong start to the tournament, following their 3–1 victory over Uganda, which currently places them at the summit of the group.
Nigeria sit second after a hard-fought 2–1 win against Tanzania in their opener.
Looking ahead to Saturday’s encounter, Sassi recalled Tunisia’s memorable 1–0 win over Nigeria at the 2021 AFCON in Garoua, achieved under difficult circumstances.
“We remember our last game against Nigeria in Garoua. We won the game, and it was tough because we had a lot of players with COVID, but we showed solidarity and proved we can beat anyone in any circumstances,” Sassi said.
The experienced midfielder stressed that history alone would not decide the upcoming clash, acknowledging the changes on both sides since their last meeting.
“It was a really nice game, but tomorrow will be another story. There are many changes in both teams. I don’t think we are favourites for this game because Nigeria did well in their first match and they have very good players,” he added.
Sassi described the fixture as potentially decisive in the race for first place in Group C.
“It will be a really good game. We are confident because this could be the final of the group stage. We want to finish first, and hopefully tomorrow we will do well.”
Saturday’s match will mark the seventh AFCON meeting between Nigeria and Tunisia.
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In the previous six encounters at the tournament, the Super Eagles have won four times, while Tunisia have recorded two victories.
Nigeria’s last AFCON win over Tunisia came at the 2019 tournament in Egypt, when Odion Ighalo scored the decisive goal just three minutes into the contest.
As both sides enter the clash with maximum points, the outcome in Fès is expected to play a crucial role in determining who claims top spot in Group C and secures a favourable path into the knockout stages.
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