Will Tunisia claim their first qualifying win? Prediction for the match against Libya on November 13
On Friday, November 13, Tunisia host Libya at the Stade Taïeb Mhiri in Sfax in the third round of Africa Cup of Nations qualifying. Both sides opened their qualifying campaigns with draws and are still searching for their first win, making this head-to-head clash a crucial moment in the race to reach the continental tournament’s finals.
Tunisia head into the third round in third place in the group, with two points from their opening two matches. The Carthage Eagles are traditionally among the leading contenders in qualifying, drawing on their key players’ wealth of European experience, tactical discipline in transition and well-drilled possession game. The backing of the home crowd at the Stade Taïeb Mhiri in Sfax should give the hosts a huge emotional lift, spurring Tunisia to press high and dominate the midfield from the opening minutes.
Libya sit fourth in the group standings, with one point from two matches. The Libyan side typically favour a balanced, pragmatic approach, keeping their defensive lines compact and placing a premium on physical endurance, aerial duels and strong challenges. Ahead of a difficult trip to Tunisia, the visitors’ coaching staff will be tasked with denying the opposition’s forwards space around their own penalty area and containing their quick combinations with a disciplined mid-block.
The tactical pattern of the match is likely to be dictated by Tunisia’s territorial dominance. The hosts will look to take control of possession from the outset, apply pressure out wide and methodically stretch their neighbours’ defensive shape. Libya, meanwhile, are expected to sit deep, set up compact defensive lines and look for rapid counterattacks after winning the ball, as well as opportunities from set pieces.
Prediction
I expect the hosts to secure a confident win: they need all three points to keep their hopes of reaching the finals alive. My prediction: Tunisia -1 Asian handicap at 1.48
