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

Sami Trabelsi, coach of the Tunisian national team, affirmed that football does not adhere to a fixed logic, emphasizing that each tournament has its own specific characteristics and circumstances. He made these remarks during the pre-match press conference ahead of Tunisia's encounter with Uganda, which is part of the first round of Group C in the Africa Cup of Nations.

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

The "Carthage Eagles" coach clarified that the team's motivation is not linked to previous negative results. On the contrary, he asserted that 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 very much present.

Trabelsi continued, "The reality of matches dictates outcomes, 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 major difference between a big team and a small one."

He added, "What happened in the opening match between Morocco and Comoros was a clear message to the continent's giants. The Comoros team troubled a strong title contender, which 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 further stated, "The Africa Cup of Nations is a different reality; it's not the name of the team 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 here for tourism; everyone has the desire to go far. We are focusing on the start and aiming for a successful beginning to achieve an accomplishment worthy of Tunisia, especially since we are playing in a brotherly country like Morocco, which boasts excellent facilities and atmosphere."