TUNISIA U17 Profile
Since 2013, Tunisia had not taken part in a TotalEnergies CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations. Twelve long years of waiting that are finally coming to an end. This qualification marks the return of a promising generation, ready to make a name for itself on the continental scene. Under the leadership of Mohamed Amine Naffati, Tunisia has been able to develop a coherent and dynamic game.
HOW THEY QUALIFIED
Finishing in third place in the UNAF zone qualifiers in November 2024 in Casablanca, behind Morocco and Egypt, the Tunisia U-17 team failed to qualify directly for the final phase of the U-17 AFCON 2025. However, thanks to the expansion of the number of participating teams, the Aiglons were drafted and thus earned their place in the competition.
COMPETITION HISTORY
The only achievement of the Tunisians in this category remains their bronze medal obtained in 2013. Firas Ben Larbi was part of this historic team, making his mark with remarkable performances. After this success, Tunisia went through a long period without major success in this competition. However, with a rising generation and the contribution of young talents determined to write a new chapter for Tunisian football, the Aiglons have new ambitions.
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Anisse Saidi
Anisse Saidi is a promising striker and a key attacking asset for the Tunisia U-17 team. With a combination of speed, technique and game intelligence, he quickly stood out as one of the main drivers of the Tunisian attack. Saidi has an excellent ability to position himself in the right place at the right time, which allows him to create scoring chances and convert his teammates' assists.
Aziz Chaabene
Aziz Chaabene is a talented striker and a real offensive threat for the Tunisia U-17 team. With his impressive speed and ability to stand out from defenders, he is a real asset in attacking transitions. Chaabene stands out for his intelligent play and his natural goalscoring instinct, often in the right place at the right time to exploit the spaces left by opposing defenders.
COACH AND TACTICAL APPROACH
Mohamed Amine Naffati embodies a modern and thoughtful tactical approach, emphasizing discipline, solidarity and balance between the defensive and offensive phases. His style of play is based on a robust defensive organisation, where the emphasis is on close coverage and quick ball recovery. Naffati ensures that his players are always ready to reposition, ensuring a solid defensive foundation before going on the attack.
Offensively, he advocates a quick transition game, aiming to exploit the spaces left by the opponents. Tunisia's system of play is designed to be flexible, with a midfield capable of controlling tempo and distributing play with precision. Players are encouraged to take creative initiatives, while respecting the collective principles of play. Forwards, on the other hand, are invited to be mobile and to reposition themselves quickly to surprise opposing defences.
Naffati also emphasizes mental preparation and the importance of group cohesion. It creates an environment where each player understands their role within the overall system, while promoting individual growth. In short, Naffati's vision is clear: to build a young, dynamic and competitive team, capable of competing with the best African nations, combining tactical rigour and creative freedom on the pitch.
TOURNAMENT EXPECTATIONS & GROUP ANALYSIS
A group where each team will have arguments to make, and where Tunisia will have to show resilience and strategy to make their way to the finals. For its return to the competition, Tunisia finds itself in a particularly tough Group C.
Senegal
Reigning African champions, Senegal arrive with the ambition to defend their title and assert their dominance in this U-17 category. With a talented and experienced team, the Lion Cubs of Teranga are serious contenders for victory.
Gambia
The Gambia's Young Scorpions are looking to reaffirm their status as a great African football nation in this category where they were crowned twice in 2005 and 2009. With several titles in their pocket and a close-knit group, they are counting on their experience and collective play to disrupt their opponents and aim for the final phases.
Somalia
After proving themselves in the last edition, Somalia hopes to take another step forward this time. Although less experienced than their opponents, the Ocean Stars team will highlight their fighting spirit and their desire to challenge the great nations of African football.