Tunisia embrace tactical evolution ahead of Nigeria AFCON test

Carthage Eagles coach Sami Trabelsi has openly acknowledged that Tunisia's previous outing fell short in terms of creativity and player freedom, conceding that an overly rigid tactical structure limited the team's attacking expression and individual influence.

According to Trabelsi, relying exclusively on strict organisation in both offense and defense came at a cost, with certain players unable to perform at their optimal level within such constraints.

"Yes, in the last game there was no real expression," Trabelsi said, as quoted by Africa Top Sports.

"When we play with only organised offense and defense, it decreases the performance of some players."

As a result, Tunisia are preparing to adopt a more inclusive game model against the Super Eagles - one that places responsibility across the entire team rather than isolating defensive duties to the backline.

While Trabelsi was quick to praise Nigeria's balance and strength in both phases of play, he made it clear that Tunisia's response will be collective rather than cautious.

"Nigeria are strong offensively and defensively. All players will be involved, not only defenders," he added.

Off the pitch, the Tunisian camp remains insulated from external pressure, with Trabelsi insisting the focus remains solely on execution on matchday.

"We focus only on the field; social media or past results will not affect us."

There was further encouragement for Tunisia with the improving condition of key attacker Hazem, who has returned to full training and is edging closer to full match fitness.

"Hazem is fit and doing better in training," Trabelsi confirmed.

Despite the renewed confidence, the coach conceded that Tunisia are not without vulnerabilities.

However, he revealed that detailed analysis has been conducted on Nigeria as the North Africans prepare for a defining test in the group.

"There is no national team without weak points, and we have studied Nigeria's," he said.

With progression in mind, Trabelsi underlined that Tunisia's ambitions require boldness against the continent's heavyweights - starting with Nigeria.

"To go far, we must beat big teams."