Tunisia coach Jalel Kadri steps down after shock exit
Jalel Kadri, the coach of Tunisia, has stepped down from his role following the team’s unexpected early exit from the Africa Cup of Nations.
Tunisia finished at the bottom of their pool in the Ivory Coast on Wednesday, sealing their elimination from the tournament after a disappointing performance.
Kadri, who previously led the team during the World Cup in Qatar, where they notably defeated France, announced his departure in a post-match television interview after Tunisia’s 0-0 draw with South Africa confirmed their elimination.
He expressed, “My mission at the head of the Tunisian national team is now over.”
Tunisia’s disappointing campaign in the AFCON saw them finish at the bottom of their group with just two points from three games. The team suffered a surprising opening loss to Namibia and managed only a draw with Mali.
Kadri’s departure adds to the list of coaching changes during this Cup of Nations, which has witnessed several surprising outcomes.
Other coaching casualties include Ghana’s Chris Hughton, Algeria’s Djamel Belmadi, Tanzania’s Adel Amrouche, and Jean-Louis Gasset from hosts Ivory Coast.
Additionally, Gambia’s Tom Saintfiet resigned after his team’s exit in the group stage.