In a tightly contested North African derby at Stade Père Jégo in Casablanca, Tunisia and Algeria played to a 0-0 draw in their WAFCON 2025 Group B clash, missing the chance to seize early control of the group. The match delivered intensity and tactical discipline but lacked the finishing touch to break the deadlock.

Tunisia's renewed effort falls short of a breakthrough

After a heavy 3-0 loss to Nigeria in their opening match, the Carthage Eagles showed more determination and attacking intent. They looked better organized and more dangerous, particularly in the first half. Sana Guermazi forced a great fingertip save from Algerian goalkeeper Chloé N’Gazi, and a close-range header from Myriam Bayahia was blocked in a crowded box, illustrating Tunisia's ongoing struggle to convert pressure into goals. The team has now gone five consecutive WAFCON finals matches without scoring — a worrying trend.

Algeria dominate but fail to capitalize

Fresh off a morale-boosting win over Botswana, Algeria controlled much of the second half, enjoying extended periods of possession and creating clearer chances. Yet they were repeatedly denied by Tunisian goalkeeper Soulayma Jebrani, who delivered an outstanding performance.

Under coach Farid Benstiti, Algeria appeared the more composed side but often lacked accuracy in the final third. Inès Boutaleb and Amira Ould Braham found space but couldn’t convert, as Tunisia’s defense stood firm.

Final moments and group implications

Late efforts by Mélinne D'Oria and Ghoutia Karchouni were comfortably handled by Jebrani, and Tunisia’s final attacking attempts — including a speculative 35-yard free-kick from Samia Aouni — posed little threat to Algeria’s goal.

With the draw, Algeria move to four points, remaining unbeaten and well-positioned ahead of their crucial group-stage finale against Nigeria. Tunisia, with just one point, now face a must-win match against Botswana to keep their hopes alive for a historic first quarter-final appearance.

Despite the lack of goals, the match was a compelling tactical battle, shaped by mutual respect, historic familiarity, and high stakes. The point could prove valuable, but for Tunisia, the search for a WAFCON goal — and redemption — continues.