Trabelsi (Tunisia Coach): 'AFCON is a Different Story; We Saw How Comoros Troubled Morocco'

Sami Trabelsi, the coach of the Tunisian national team, affirmed that football does not adhere to fixed logic, emphasizing that every tournament has its unique characteristics and circumstances. He made these remarks during the press conference preceding their match against Uganda, in the first round of Group C of the Africa Cup of Nations.

Trabelsi stated, “Football is not an exact science, and no two tournaments are alike,” citing the experience of the Algerian national team, which won the Arab Cup in 2022 before exiting the Africa Cup of Nations from the first round. He added, “Every tournament has its own specific circumstances and cannot be compared.”

The 'Carthage Eagles' coach clarified that the team's motivation is not linked to previous negative results. On the contrary, the players are in their best mental state and possess a strong desire to respond to their disappointing performance in the Arab Cup, confirming that motivation and enthusiasm are strongly present.

Trabelsi continued, “The reality of matches dictates itself, not the reputation of teams. Uganda is a respected team, and statistics and experience confirm this. Football has also evolved significantly, and there is no longer a big difference between a major team and a smaller one.”

He further explained, “What happened in the opening match between Morocco and Comoros was a clear message to the continent's giants, as the Comoros national team troubled the strong title favorite. This is proof that the task will not be easy, and that some teams have developed significantly. Uganda could be the surprise of this tournament.”

Trabelsi added, “The Africa Cup of Nations is a different reality; it's not the team's name that makes the difference, but the reality of the match. In every edition, we find teams playing the role of dark horses, reaching advanced stages, and sometimes even winning the title.”

The Tunisian national team coach concluded his remarks by saying, “No team has come for tourism; everyone has the desire to go far. We are focusing on the start and aiming for a successful beginning, in order to achieve an accomplishment worthy of Tunisia, especially since we are playing in a brotherly country like Morocco, which offers excellent facilities and atmosphere.”