On the eve of a high-stakes Group C showdown at the Complexe Sportif de Fès, Tunisian stalwart Montassar Talbi has steered the “favorites” tag firmly toward Nigeria, dismissing suggestions that past triumphs guarantee future success.
Despite the Carthage Eagles famously ending Nigeria’s 2021 AFCON campaign in a clinical Round of 16 upset, Talbi was quick to pivot the narrative during Friday’s pre-match press conference. The Lorient defender cited Nigeria’s explosive start to the tournament as the primary reason for his caution.
“I don’t think we are the favorites for tomorrow because Nigeria played a really big game in their opener,” Talbi noted. “They are doing well. It will be a high-quality encounter, but our goal remains to win the group.”
The Stakes: Widely regarded as the “Final of the Group,” the winner likely secures the top spot in Group C.
The History: Nigeria enters the pitch seeking redemption for their 1-0 exit in Cameroon four years ago—a match in which Talbi played all 90 minutes.
The Pedigree: Talbi countered claims that Tunisia is a rising force, pointing to their consistency: “We have qualified for the last three World Cups… the respect is already there, but we want to go bigger.”
While Talbi’s rhetoric leans toward humility, the tactical battle on the pitch is expected to be anything but quiet. With kickoff set for 9:00 PM Nigerian time, the Super Eagles face a Tunisian side that is clearly comfortable.
