Tunisia meet Libya on 13 and 17 November in a decisive double-header that could define their pursuit of qualification for CAN 2027, with the Aigles de Carthage under pressure to recover from a difficult start.
The Tunisians collected only two points from their opening two matches in October, drawing 1-1 with Uganda and 2-2 with Botswana. They are still waiting for their first victory, while the new technical staff face questions over the team’s organisation and ability to manage matches.
Uganda, co-hosts of the next CAN, have already secured their place in the final tournament. That leaves one qualifying position for Tunisia, Libya and Botswana, meaning Tunisia must improve quickly if they are to avoid losing ground before the final two matchdays in March 2027.
The matches against Libya will also offer a first major examination of Tunisia’s new cycle. Former national-team assistant Nader Daoud believes the current problems go beyond a poor run of results or shortcomings in front of goal.
Tunisia seeking new leaders
The national side are still adjusting to the loss of several experienced figures who formed the backbone of the team. The departures of Wahbi Khazri, Ellyes Skhiri, Naim Sliti and Youssef Msakni have left a significant gap in both technical quality and dressing-room authority.
Those players offered more than their footballing ability. They were established voices who could take responsibility, settle the team during difficult periods and provide direction when matches became unsettled.
Tunisia have yet to identify a new group capable of filling that role. The challenge is not simply to replace four individuals, but to establish a new sporting hierarchy and develop players able to carry the team while passing on the demands of international football to a less experienced generation.
That lack of leadership has been evident when Tunisia have needed to protect a lead or recover from a setback. At times, they have lacked the composure, personality and control required to dictate the tempo.
Creativity remains a concern
Tunisia still possess promising players, but their current squad does not offer the same depth of match-winning talent associated with previous generations. There are fewer players who can create an opening alone, beat an opponent, produce a decisive burst of pace or find a solution in tight spaces.
That issue becomes particularly clear against teams willing to defend deep and concede possession. Moving the ball around is not enough without greater risk-taking, penetration and individual initiative in the final third.
Hannibal Mejbri’s absence has made that problem more pronounced. His energy, aggression in challenges, ability to break lines and capacity to speed up play could have added another dimension to the Tunisian midfield.
The coaching staff must therefore find more than a replacement for one missing player. They need profiles capable of giving the side greater character and unpredictability, while improving responsibilities in midfield, balance in wide areas and attacking combinations.
Libya are also under pressure, with one point from their first two games. The Chevaliers of the Mediterranean can revive their campaign through this double-header, and Tunisia cannot afford to judge them solely by their position or FIFA ranking.
In a derby, discipline, commitment and the handling of decisive moments can outweigh theoretical differences in quality. Tunisia must show greater intensity and control, secure points and provide evidence that their rebuilding process has begun.