A Discreet Test Away from the Media Spotlight
The training camp in Tabarka is coming to an end with a friendly match against Botswana and a trip to Rabat tomorrow to compete in the African Cup of Nations (CAN). This test is the only opportunity for coach Sami Trabelsi to field his ideal starting eleven before the real competition begins.
Despite the staggered arrival of expatriate players, Trabelsi has not had enough time to prepare everything. However, even two or three days can be sufficient to assess the players' level and fine-tune the details. This friendly match, held away from the media spotlight, is an opportunity for the national technical staff to choose their starting eleven for the first CAN match.
Although in recent hours, the national coach has been hesitant between fielding his preferred starting eleven or two different teams and letting competition play out until the last training sessions. Even if he opts for the latter, the team's core is already in place. Players like Dahmen, Abdi, Bronn, Talbi, Skhiri, Mejbri, Sassi, Saad, and Mastouri are almost certain to start.
Each player will be given playing time based on their physical condition and fitness level.
Sliti: A Race Against Time
There is no update on the health status of winger Naim Sliti. The medical staff is working hard to help the player recover and be fit for the CAN. However, it seems increasingly likely that he might miss the tournament.
The team does not want to risk aggravating his condition. Seif Allah Letaief remains the primary alternative to replace him.
Set Pieces
The team has focused heavily on set pieces in recent training sessions. Shooting techniques, positioning, and strategies have all been worked on to improve the Tunisians' success rate in this increasingly crucial aspect of the game.
The contribution of central defenders and attackers is vital if the team wants to make set pieces a strength. The same reasoning applies to defending against set pieces. The last Arab Cup highlighted significant weaknesses in this area, particularly in marking and clearing the ball.
