WAFCON - Nigeria-Tunisia: The Eagles' Momentum Against the Green Wall

In the setting sun of Casablanca, the Larbi Zaouli stadium is preparing to host a Group B opening clash brimming with history and revenge. This Sunday (5 p.m. local time), Nigeria, the nine-time record African champions, kick off their campaign against Tunisia, a team undergoing a major overhaul but refusing to approach this match as the underdog.

Nigeria, the perennial favourite who want to reclaim their crown

With nine continental titles in 12 editions, the Super Falcons continue to advance with the glorious weight of their record. But while the numbers speak for themselves—176 goals scored in 61 WAFCON matches, 45 wins, and only seven losses—yesterday's certainties have given way to more nuanced signals. Indeed, the Nigerians have lost their last two opening matches at the WAFCON, each time against South Africa (1-0 in 2018, 2-1 in 2022). They have not won their opening match since 2016. And while their dominance against North African opposition is clear (25 goals scored, only one conceded in six matches), their last head-to-head encounter with Tunisia in 2008, ended in a 0-0 draw. A memory that is still vivid for both sides.

Despite this, coach Justin Madugu remains calm: "This squad is prepared to go all the way. There is a collective dynamic, depth in every position, and key players like Rasheedat Ajibade who can turn a match around." The Atlético Madrid player embodies this new Nigerian generation that combines experience and explosiveness. "We know that every tournament is a new challenge. We respect Tunisia, but we are aiming for the top," she says with a smile.

Tunisia, a quiet ambition

For Tunisia, the equation is simple: do better than in 2022 when the team reached the quarterfinals for the first time in their history. Since then, the Tunisian Football Federation has implemented a fundamental reform. "We are in phase B of a five-year project aimed at structuring the women's national teams from U15 to A," explains coach Kamel Saada. "This squad has been renewed with an experienced foundation of talent but also a lot of youth."

Facing the Nigerian giants, the Carthage Eagles want to offer something other than a low block and timid counterattacks. "We have our tactical skills. We do not come as underdogs. We want to get a result," insists Saada. Sabrine Ellouzi, the team's attacking leader and top scorer in qualifying with seven goals, shares the same determination: "This WAFCON is different. In 2022, it was a discovery. Today, we know what to expect. There is more maturity, more camaraderie."

Ellouzi perfectly embodies this renewal. Both an instinctive striker and the conductor of a dressing room under reconstruction, she also cultivates another passion: cooking. "Publishing a cookbook is like scoring a goal. You have to work as a team, just like on the pitch," she says humorously. A personal touch for a team seeking to forge a strong identity, combining rigor and freedom.

A Duel of Formations and Vision of the Game

Beyond the pitch, this encounter is also the fruit of two schools of thought. "We share a lot with the Nigerian staff, particularly a training program focused on technical development," notes Kamel Saada. "But our Tunisian uniqueness is tactical discipline."

In reality, Tunisia should offer a midfield with a desire to emerge cleanly. Nigeria, for their part, will certainly impose a high tempo, relying on the verticality and impact of their wingers. If the Super Falcons open the scoring early, the match could get heated. If the Tunisians hold out for an hour, doubts could set in. Ajibade warns: "We shall have to be patient, clear-headed and efficient. We want to start this WAFCON on a solid footing." This Sunday, these two teams face their destinies. For Nigeria, it is an opportunity to reassert their dominance. For Tunisia, it is an opportunity to shake up the hierarchy.

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