AFCON 2025: Sami Trabelsi says it was painful for Tunisia exit

Tunisia coach Sami Trabelsi admitted it was a painful way for his side to go out of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.

Despite Tunisia enjoying numerical advantage, it was Mali, who booked their place in the quarterfinals after defeating them 3-2 on penalties following a hard-fought 1-1 draw in regulation and extra time.

“It was a difficult match. Tunisia were in control, but unfortunately after scoring, something incomprehensible happened and we made a mistake. Of course, there is great disappointment and pain after Tunisia’s elimination from the competition,” he said.

“A defeat remains a defeat, even if it comes via penalties. It is true that we could have qualified, as our opponents played with ten men from the end of the first half, but it did not happen.”

He concluded: “The responsibility for the loss lies with the coach, that is certain. The players gave everything they had in a match we largely controlled, and we cannot blame them.”