Montassar Talbi has made it clear that the Carthage Eagles are targeting top spot in Group C at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, as they prepare for a key meeting with Nigeria in Fes on Saturday night, Soccernet.ng reports.
Tunisia defender Montassar Talbi has declared that the Carthage Eagles are targeting the top spot in Group C as they prepare for a high-stakes AFCON 2025 encounter against Nigeria this Saturday.
Speaking in Fes, Talbi characterized the upcoming match as a potential “final of the group.”
Both nations entered the fixture with three points each following opening-day victories, making this contest a decisive factor in determining the final group standings.
Despite Tunisia’s recent 3-1 win over Uganda, Talbi was quick to dismiss the idea that his side holds a psychological advantage.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s form, he stated, “I don’t think we are the favourites for tomorrow because Nigeria also did a really big game for the first game, and they are doing well.” He added, “It will be a nice fight, but we hope to win.”
For Nigeria, the match offers a long-awaited opportunity for revenge following their shock exit at the hands of Tunisia during the 2021 tournament.
While the historical record between the two sides is perfectly balanced with three wins apiece in their last ten meetings, Talbi remains confident in Tunisia’s growth.
He noted, “We have qualified for the last three World Cups, and even at the AFCON, we have done well. They respect us now.”