Cape Verde

A few eyebrows were raised when, on the FIFA CAF rankings released on January 8th 2015, Cape Verde were listed at #7, above the likes of Nigeria, Cameroon and 2012 winners Zambia. Nonetheless, given the style with which they coasted through their qualifiers, FIFA seems to have been vindicated in their assessment of the footballing qualities of the island country.

Niger will know exactly how rough it can be to face the Cape Verdeans, having been dumped out of the qualifiers courtesy of a 6-2 aggregate thrashing at their hands. If the Tunisians fail to produce a performance, an upset could well be on the cards.

Tunisia

Over the last two or three centuries, the Tunisians have established themselves as a top, top side in Africa. The Eagles of Carthage, who won the 2004 edition of the most prestigious African football tournament, have 16 AFCON appearances under their belts and have put in a series of impressive showings in the Confederations Cup over the years.

  Garry Rodriguez, Cape Verde

Nonetheless, against the Creoles on Sunday, Tunisia know they will have their hands full. The likes of Cape Verde forward Garry Rodrigues, who has been in excellent form over the qualifying rounds, will take some stopping. Additionally, Tunisia’s forwards will have to be on their best form to ensure any chances that come their way are converted.

Tunisia 1st Eleven: A. Mathlouthi, A. Abdennour, S. Ben Youssef, A. Maâloul, Y. Chikhaoui, H. Nater, J. Saihi, W. Khazri, M. Manser, H. Mathlouthi

Subs: F. Ben Mustapha, B. Mohsni, R. Bedoui, H. Ragued, Y. Msakni, H. Younès, A. Chermiti, F. Sassi, M. Yacoubi, M. Ben Cherifia, S. Ben Djemia

Cape Verde 1st Eleven: Vózinha, Fernando Varela, Gêgê, Stopira, Carlitos, Babanco, Calú, Nuno Rocha, Héldon, Djaniny, Kuca

Subs: Kay, Semedo, Odaïr Fortes, Toni Varela, Garry Rodrigues, Kevin, Platini, Ivan Cruz, Nivaldo, Júlio Tavares, Ryan Mendes, Jeffrey Fortes