The assistant coach of the senior national team of Tunisia Jalal Al-Qadri saya his team will approach their round of 16 game against Nigeria tomorrow at the Africa Cup of Nations tomorrow with high hopes.
Jalal Al-Qadri will be on the bench in place of head coach Mondher Kebaier who is not available for this game alongside over ten players after they all tested positive to Covid-19. Jalal is however confident that they can get a result against Nigeria.
He said although they will try to compete against the Nigerian team who won all their group games at the tournament despite the fact that they have to qualify as one of the third placed best team, he however admitted that they will need some elements of luck against the Super Eagles.
“We are confident and hope things go our way. We will find solutions to the Covid-19 problems. We won’t reveal our strategy. We hope luck will be on our side. Covid-19 has really affected our team. Our strength has been reduced and it can happen to any team in the world” he explained
“It is not only the players but technical staff as well. The technical crew is competent to ensure victory is on our side. Nigeria is a formidable side, Tunisia is a historic team in terms of African Football. Despite the obstacles we have a positive mindset”, further stated.
He went on to warn the Nigerian team not to underate his depleted team as they have players who can hurt the Super Eagles particularly two players who can provide the goals.
“We have skills which will enable us adopt to any situation. The Nigerian team must understand that they are meeting a competitive and battle ready Tunisian side. Football is unpredictable.
“For every game, there is a plan. We are not focusing on penalties. We are counting on Youssef Msakni and Ali Maâloul. They have played together and both scored. We have a lot that we are playing to unveil on Sunday”, he concluded
