Tunisia U-20 Profile: Junior Carthage Eagles out to reclaim continental pedigree
Tunisia return to the TotalEnergies CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations with fresh ambition and a renewed focus on restoring their status in youth football.
Drawn into a highly competitive Group B alongside Nigeria, Morocco, and Kenya, the Carthage Eagles will be banking on their mix of local and Europe-based talent to make a deep run in Egypt 2025.
Coach Mejdi Traoui’s side is targeting a top-four finish and a place at the FIFA U-20 World Cup later this year.
TUNISIA
Tunisia return to the TotalEnergies CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations with renewed determination and a golden opportunity to reignite their youth football legacy. The North African side will feature in the tournament’s 2025 edition in Egypt after gaining entry under unusual circumstances—but they are fully focused on making the most of the chance.
Tunisia have been drawn in Group B, alongside continental heavyweights Nigeria and Morocco, as well as a rapidly improving Kenya side.
Led by former international Mejdi Traoui, Tunisia bring a mix of domestic and European-based talent into the competition, hoping to reach the semi-finals and secure qualification for the FIFA U-20 World Cup later this year.
HOW THEY QUALIFIED
Tunisia’s path to Egypt 2025 was anything but straightforward. After finishing third in the UNAF U-20 Championship—behind Egypt and Morocco—they initially missed out on automatic qualification.
However, when Cote d'Ivoire withdrew as hosts of the tournament, a spot opened up, and Tunisia were granted entry. During the UNAF qualifiers, Tunisia recorded victories over Libya and Algeria, but also showed defensive vulnerability, scoring and conceding five goals apiece. The campaign revealed both their attacking promise and the need for greater consistency.
HISTORY IN THE TOTALENERGIES CAF U-20 AFCON
This marks Tunisia’s ninth appearance at the U-20 AFCON, with their first dating back to 1979. Their best result came in 1985, when they reached the final but fell short against Nigeria.
In recent years, Tunisia have twice finished in the semi-finals, earning fourth place and subsequently qualifying for the FIFA U-20 World Cup. Their history shows a team capable of competing at the highest level when they find their rhythm.
KEY PLAYERS TO WATCH
Khalil Ayari – The 20-year-old winger from Stade Tunisien is known for his electric pace, one-on-one ability, and direct style of play. He offers a consistent threat down the flanks.
Louey Ben Farhat – A rising star based in Germany, the 18-year-old midfielder from Karlsruhe U-19 has scored 13 goals in 27 games this season. His creative passing and eye for goal make him a key figure in Tunisia’s midfield.
Youssef Becha – The CS Sfaxien winger is a skillful dribbler who thrives in wide spaces. His agility and delivery from the wings could prove decisive in tight matches.
COACH AND TACTICAL APPROACH
Head coach Mejdi Traoui brings valuable top-flight experience from stints with Esperance de Tunis and the Tunisian senior national team. His tactical style is based on quick transitions, positional fluidity, and aggressive pressing.
Traoui prefers a 4-2-3-1 formation that encourages creative freedom in the final third, while maintaining defensive discipline through a solid midfield base.
TOURNAMENT AMBITIONS AND GROUP ANALYSIS
Drawn into a formidable Group B with Nigeria, Morocco, and Kenya, Tunisia face one of the most competitive pools in the tournament. Each match will demand tactical precision and mental fortitude.
Nonetheless, Tunisia aim to reach the semi-finals, which would secure qualification to the FIFA U-20 World Cup. With their technical players and experienced coach, Tunisia enter the tournament as one of the potential dark horses.