Tunisia’s Olympic side will face Gabon on 12 and 17 November in the second round of qualifying for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations U23 in Egypt, with a promising generation seeking to turn recent international progress into a place at the finals.

The first leg will be played at the Stade olympique de Sousse before Tunisia travel to Franceville for the return fixture. Anis Boujelbene’s squad includes players from the Tunisian league alongside young talents based in Europe and North America.

The team’s credentials have been strengthened by two notable campaigns in recent months. In June 2026, Tunisia finished top of their group at the Maurice Revello Tournament in France with seven points, recording victories over the Democratic Republic of the Congo and China.

The Aiglons then reached the final, where they finished runners-up after losing 2-0 to Portugal U20.

Much of the same generation featured at the Mediterranean Games in Taranto, Italy, a few weeks later. Tunisia U21 again reached the final after beating Italy 3-1 in the semi-final, before taking the silver medal following a 2-0 defeat by Algeria.

Those results have highlighted the development of several players and their ability to compete against strong opposition.

Players abroad add to Tunisia’s options

Among the players attracting attention is Omar Ben Ali, who plays for Alanyaspor in Turkey. His experience abroad gives Tunisia an additional option in a competitive environment.

Rayan Elloumi, of Vancouver Whitecaps in Canada, brings further international experience, while Belgium-based Anas Haj Mohamed of Beerschot VA offers technical ability, mobility and attacking qualities.

The squad also includes Nacim Dendani of RFC Liege and Dhirar Brik, who plays for FC Sudtirol in Italy. In midfield, Mohamed Rayane Anane of Etoile Sportive du Sahel is another important member of the group.

The mixture of players developed in Tunisia and those competing overseas gives the coaching staff a wider range of tactical options, as well as individuals familiar with different football environments.

Former Tunisia international and ex-Olympique Lyonnais player Rafik Boujedra, speaking in an exclusive interview with Africafoot, believes the group has the potential to become an important part of the national team’s future.

He points to the two international finals reached in a matter of months as evidence that the players can perform against quality opponents. However, he also stresses the need for continuity, collective identity and a clear pathway towards senior football.

Gabon provide a serious challenge

Gabon will enter the tie after being exempted from the first qualifying round. Their team, managed by Saturnin Ibela, began preparations with a camp that included physical assessments of players from the domestic league.

Ibela has expressed confidence in his squad and his desire to build a competitive side. Tunisia will therefore need to establish an advantage in Sousse before the difficult trip to Franceville, where the home crowd may add to the pressure.

The tie offers Tunisia an opportunity to move beyond the promise shown at the Maurice Revello Tournament and Mediterranean Games. The next test will be official African competition, where physical strength, commitment and the handling of decisive moments will be crucial.