Nabil Kouki: "Mali are not infallible, Tunisia can hurt them"

How was the defeat against Namibia received in Tunisia?

People are obviously very disappointed, surprised and angry too. I don't think anybody expected the team to lose their opening match against the side billed as the weakest in the group. It's a big setback, and it forces the Eagles of Carthage to respond on Saturday against Mali.

How do you explain this painful defeat?

I was all the more surprised because the match had started well. There were fifteen promising opening minutes, with tempo, desire and chances. Then they began to ease off. At the start of the second half I noticed an improvement, but it didn't last. And the team conceded that goal late on, against a lively, fearless Namibian side who had already had chances. I think the Eagles weren't mentally ready, and some players weren't at their level.

"There will surely be changes"

On Sunday, the team have a lot at stake against Mali, who beat South Africa (2-0) on Tuesday…

Tunisia absolutely must respond. Another defeat could knock them out, which would be a huge surprise. I think there will be two or three changes in the starting XI, perhaps with a new tactical set-up. They will need to show a different side. The Eagles are capable of it, because they have the technical quality, notably with Youssef Msakni, one of the few who played to his level last Tuesday, and the physical quality too. Because Mali are an excellent team.

How did you assess the Malian side's match?

They are of a very high standard, which everybody knew. They can rely on experienced players, and they are both technical and athletic. But they were put under pressure several times by a good South African side. They are not infallible, and Tunisia, with the technical quality of their players, can hurt them. I'm fairly confident because the Eagles will be highly motivated. They know defeat is not an option. Tunisia aim to play a part in this AFCON. Nothing is over. I expect a very good game, between two fine teams.

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Alexis Billebault