Tunisia’s rebuilding process began with disappointment as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Uganda at home in their opening Africa Cup of Nations 2027 qualifier on Thursday.
The result at Hamadi Agrebi Stadium in Rades extended Tunisia’s poor run following a chaotic 2026 World Cup campaign and spoiled new manager Mouine Chaabani’s first match in charge of the Aigles of Carthage.
Tunisia had made the stronger start and took the lead when central defender Adem Arous reacted quickest at the far post, turning in a corner delivered by Khalil Ayari with a sliding finish.
They came close to doubling their advantage before the interval. Ismael Gharbi’s free-kick struck the post after 30 minutes, but the hosts were largely unconvincing from open play and posed most of their threat from set-pieces.
Chaabani made two changes at half-time, replacing Khalil Ayari and Rayen Elloumi with Sayfallah Ltaief and Sadok Kadida. The changes underlined Tunisia’s struggles as they failed to impose themselves on a Uganda side they had beaten 3-1 at the Africa Cup of Nations towards the end of 2025.
Uganda, who have already qualified for the next edition as hosts, eventually levelled in the 68th minute. Rogers Mato was allowed to equalise against a passive defence, with Yan Valery among those caught out as the visitors found a way through.
The draw leaves Tunisia needing a response when they travel to Botswana on Monday for their second Group match. The long-term rebuilding task facing the team was highlighted by their lack of attacking threat beyond dead-ball situations and their failure to protect a narrow lead.
Botswana also surrendered a two-goal advantage in the other Group fixture on Thursday. The Zebras looked set to defeat Libya after Tumisang Orebonye scored twice in the first half, in the 30th and 42nd minutes.
However, Libya fought back late in Tripoli. Alhibeeshi reduced the deficit in the 87th minute before El Maremi completed the comeback with an equaliser in the sixth minute of added time, earning the Mediterranean Knights a 2-2 draw.