Tunisia friendly a key tune up for African Nations Cup?

January 15th, 2006 | by: Robert | View Comments

Some might look at it as a barometer of current team chemistry, a portent for things to come, or an important turning point to establish direction over the next few months. I think of these conceits as so much fodder for the rubbish bin, but the Black Stars’ friendly versus Tunisia today will be an interesting affair nonetheless.

First, why we shouldn’t read too much into today’s match, the squad’s final tune-up before CAN Egypt (which starts in just over a week).
(1) Tunisia always has the benefit of a strong home pitch advantage. This was proven indelibly by their 2004 African Cup performance, and while the defending champs will undoubtedly hope that a victory over a respected squad like the Stars, a win in my mind would do nothing to improve their odds in the weeks to come.
(2) Conversely, the Carthage Eagles will be playing their second friendly in a day when they face the Stars in Rades. They will face Sudan in Tripoli earlier, in a match in which they are expected to limit time to their better players and attempt to establish their reserves. This split focus will reduce their effectiveness against the Stars.
(3) Does the Tunisian style really reflect the style of Senegal or fancied Nigeria. I think not. Roger LeMerre’s conservative focus can hardly be compared to the more free-wheeling styles employed by the Super Eagles or the attack oriented Lions.

Why am I paying attention? Hardly for the score. While a victory would be a nice touch, a stronger and more organized midfield would be a much nicer present. Midfield control was largely lacking in the loss to Togo last week and absent two stars, Stephen Appiah will be hard pressed to hold firm. Another benefit would be opportunistic play by less featured members- I am particularly hoping for a strong performance from Joe-Tex Frimpong.

Regardless, the Stars will be happy to see the back of Tunisia, the site of so many woes recently, whether it be with a consolation victory or a meaningless defeat.