AFCON 2023 report: Tunisia v Namibia

by Thando Mpembe

Tuesday Jan 16, 2024. 21:19

Following a spirited performance by Namibia at the Amadou Gon Coulibaly Stadium on Tuesday, 16 January, the Brave Warriors recorded a memorable 1-0 win over Tunisia in their opening Group E fixture at the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations.

Date: Tuesday, 16 January 2024

Tunisia: (0) 0

Namibia: (0) 1 (Hotto 88’)

Tunisia:  Ben Said, Kechrida, Meriah, Talbi, Maaloul, Skhiri, Ben Romdhane (Laidounie 46’), Slimane (Ltaief 83’), Achouri (Srarfi 92’), Khenissi (Jouini 15’), Msakni

Namibia: Kazapua, Haukongo, Amutenya, Nyambe, Hanamub, Petrus, Shitembi (Katua 62’), Limbondi, Tijueza (Muzeu 73’), Hotto, Shalulile

Tunisia started the game on the front foot and were awarded a corner during the first five minutes of the game as a result of their initial pressure. Namibia goalkeeper Lloyd Kazapua prevented Tunisia from taking the lead inside the first five minutes of the game following a close range save from a corner situation.

Namibia did not hold back and created numerous scoring chances inside the first 20 minutes of the match, which was often met by aggressive defending by their opposite numbers. The Carthage Eagles battled to assert themselves on the tie for much of the first 45, while the Brave Warriors ended the half on a high.

The second-half commenced at a rapid pace with Tunisia applying pressure early on. Both sides created a number of goal scoring opportunities as the game opened up toward the hour mark.

Nevertheless, it was Deon Hotto who had the last laugh after he opened the scoring in the 88^th minute. After latching onto a cross from the left flank, Hotto found himself in acres of space before guiding the ball home with aplomb.

In their next fixtures, Tunisia will face Mali in a keenly anticipated tie that will take place on Saturday 20 January while Namibia will take on Bafana Bafana on Sunday, 21 January.