Tunisia's Youssef Msakni: we never lost faith in our ability

Youssef Msakni of Tunisia is challenged by Idrissa Gueye of Senegal during the Afcon Group B match between Tunisia and Senegal on the 15 January 2017 at Franceville Stadium, Gabon Pic Sydney Mahlangu/ BackpagePix

by Phumzile Ngcatshe

Thursday Nov 09, 2017. 17:30

As they look to seal their spot at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, Tunisian striker Youssef Msakni says they never lost faith in their dream to qualify for the world's biggest tournament.

The Carthage Eagles international has thanked God for being with them throughout their qualifying campaign, saying they never lost faith.

In their previous two encounters they drew 2-2 against the Democratic Republic of Congo in September and demolished Guinea 4-1 away from home.

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However, they now need a draw to secure their ticket to the global tournament after featuring in the 2006 edition staged in Germany.

“Thanks to God, our campaign has been a success until now," Msakni told FIFA.com.

"Going into our final match in Rades, we need just a single point to qualify for the World Cup.

"This Tunisia team now has a lot of character, and we showed that in our last two games against Congo DR and Guinea.

“Despite trailing both times, we were able to go home with positive results that have made all the difference - we never lost faith in our ability."