Tunisia takes opening honours

Tunisia proved to good in the opening match of the African cup of nations overnight, despite a valient performance by debutants Rwanda.

The host nation were held out by a determined Rwandan side until the 25th minute when Zied Jaziri was fed a perfect ball from a free kick to give tunisia a 1-0 lead.

However Rwanda were determined and opened their cup of nations account with a reply six minutes later. Henriette Joao Elias's left footed free kick on 31 minutes beating the Tunisian keeper to level the match.

An onslaught of attack from Tunisia only produced fruits in the 56th minute when Jaziri made a run, only to be viciously tackled by Rwanda's Abdul Sibomana. Sibomana received his marching orders for a second bookable offence. Francileudo dos Santos stepped in to finish the attack and give Tunisia an unbeatable lead.

However it wasn't the final major event as two minutes later when Benachour took a dive in the penalty area. He was found out and was also given his marching orders for a second caution.

Tunisia will be pleased however to come away with the victory while Rwanda can be proud of their performance in a match they weren't expected to be competitive in.

Tunisia -2 (Zied Jaziri 25', Francileudo dos Santos 56')
Rwanda - 1 (Henriette Joao Elias 31')

25 January, 2004

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