Tunisia open their Africa Cup of Nations campaign looking to avoid a repeat of the disappointment from the previous edition, while Uganda arrive amid off-field tension that threatens to overshadow their preparations.
Prediction: Tunisia to Win
This matchup strongly favours Tunisia. Their recent consistency, defensive solidity, and tournament experience contrast sharply with Uganda’s disrupted build-up and internal issues.
Tunisia Arrive with Stability and Confidence
Tunisia will be eager to make a stronger start than in the last AFCON, where they exited at the group stage after two draws and a defeat. Signs ahead of this tournament are encouraging, as they have lost just one of their last nine matches. Their World Cup qualifying campaign was particularly impressive, finishing with nine wins and one draw without conceding a single goal. That defensive reliability remains a key strength, and historically Tunisia have not been eliminated in consecutive AFCON group stages since 1994, which further supports confidence in a solid opening performance.
Uganda Distracted by Internal Problems
Uganda’s recent results are not entirely discouraging, with four wins in their last six matches, but a heavy 4-0 defeat to Morocco in the qualifiers exposed the gap when facing stronger opposition. More concerning is the situation off the pitch. Just days before the tournament, parts of the squad reportedly boycotted training due to unpaid wages and uncertainty over bonuses. Such disruptions are rarely conducive to strong performances, especially against organised and experienced opponents.
