Tunisia out to book Afcon ticket

Tunisian player Naim Sliti (L) and Niger player Amadou Djibox Mohamed (R) fight for the ball during 2019 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier

by Bertin Basson

Monday Oct 15, 2018. 16:31

Tunisia are on the cusp of booking their spot at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations and will do so with victory over Niger at the Stade Général Seyni Kountché in Niamey on Tuesday.

Kick-off is at 17h00 CAT (SA, GMT+2).

The Carthage Eagles registered a third straight qualifying win this past weekend, edging the same opponents 1-0 at the Stade Olympique de Radès on Saturday.

Yassine Meriah scored the only goal of the game for the hosts in a ill-tempered affair that resulted in the Tunisian's ending the game with 10-men. Ghailene Chaalali saw red for the North African's who held on for victory nevertheless.

Tunisia lead the way in Group J with a perfect record of three wins from three games, having defeated both Egypt and Swaziland in their opening two matches. The 2004 Afcon champions have yet to concede a goal.

Niger were held to a goalless draw by Swaziland in their opening game before suffering a 6-0 defeat away to Egypt. 'Means' bounced back with a strong showing in Tunisia, but will need a minor miracle if they are to qualify for next year's showpiece in Cameroon.

Tunisia are the top FIFA ranked nation in Africa and currently occupy 23rd spot int he world ankings. Niger sit a lowly 105th.