Tunisia and Uganda Set for High-Stakes AFCON Group C Clash in Rabat -Sbk Sports Mail

• Tunisia and Uganda Set for High-Stakes AFCON Group C Clash

Rabat, Morocco – The Stade Annexe Olympique at the Complexe Sportif Prince Moulay Abdellah will come alive on Tuesday at 21:00 local time as Tunisia and Uganda prepare to lock horns in a crucial Group C clash of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations. Tunisia, with their wealth of experience, aim to assert their continental pedigree, while Uganda, making a return after a four-year absence, are determined to make a mark and rewrite the narrative of their AFCON history.

This match marks the third meeting between the two nations in AFCON history, a rivalry that spans several decades. Their first encounter came in 1962, when Tunisia secured the bronze medal after defeating Uganda in the third-place play-off. Sixteen years later, the teams met in the 1978 group stage, with Tunisia emerging 3–1 winners. The most emphatic result came during the 2000 edition, when Tunisia overwhelmed Uganda 6–0 on home soil. While history may favor the North Africans, Uganda arrive in Morocco with renewed ambition and belief that they can challenge the established order.

Tunisia enter the tournament on the back of 22 AFCON appearances, 17 of them consecutive, carrying both expectation and responsibility under head coach Samy Trabelsi. The Carthage Eagles have been impressed with the infrastructure in Rabat, and the conditions closely resemble those back home, which provides a sense of familiarity. However, Trabelsi is fully aware of the challenges Uganda pose and the competitive level of the tournament.

“For every coach, a competition like this comes with a lot of pride and pressure to do our best because it is a historic event. We want to be part of history. Our players are confident, focused, and ready to give their best. We are playing against quality opposition. Every team is playing at a high level and can make things difficult,” Trabelsi said.

Midfielder Elyes Skhiri, one of Tunisia’s experienced campaigners, highlighted the importance of collective preparation and focus.

“The squad is in good shape and in condition to deliver a solid performance. We have been together in camp, working hard as a collective to gel and play well. Football is always evolving, and we cannot rest on our laurels. We must compete to win and not take any team for granted. Uganda are no pushovers and will be out to play for a win,” Skhiri added.

Uganda, returning to their eighth AFCON appearance and their first since 2019, arrive with determination under coach Paul Put. The Cranes are focused on building cohesion, tactical awareness, and mental resilience, ready to make a statement on the continental stage.

“We are very proud to be at this tournament. The infrastructure and organization by CAF have been exceptional. We are not only playing to be watched by Africa but by the whole world. The team is preparing well and focused on the game. We are gradually gelling into a strong side that will compete,” Put said.

Midfielder Khalid Aucho emphasized the team’s determination to challenge expectations and make their nation proud.

“The team is in good shape and everyone is ready to compete. Many people have not given us a chance, but we are focused on making our nation and the people back home proud,” Aucho stated.

On the pitch, Tunisia will rely on the experience and leadership of players like Skhiri to control the tempo, dictate play, and guide their teammates through high-pressure moments. Uganda, meanwhile, will lean on Aucho and the midfield unit to disrupt Tunisia’s rhythm and launch incisive attacks. Every pass, tackle, and goal attempt will be crucial in this opening match, with both teams acutely aware that a strong start can set the tone for the rest of the group stage.

As kickoff approaches, anticipation among fans across the continent continues to build. Tunisia seek to reaffirm their historical dominance and start their campaign with authority, while Uganda aim to challenge the established order and demonstrate the growth and potential of their squad. For football enthusiasts, this clash promises drama, skill, and the unparalleled passion that the Africa Cup of Nations consistently delivers.