Tunisia’s chances of reaching Afcon knockout stage dealt huge blow with Covid cases

Tunisia’s chances of reaching the round of 16 of the Africa Cup of Nations have been dealt a huge blow after seven more players tested positive for Covid-19 ahead of their final group stage clash against the Gambia on Thursday.

Tunisia were forced to miss six players during their second group game against Mauritania which they won 4-0 and ahead of their final group phase game, they have confirmed seven new Covid-19 cases among them captain Wahbi Al-Khazri.

“In the framework of the round tests to prevent coronavirus infections conducted by Caf, the tests conducted on Tuesday revealed the infection of Ali Maaloul, Ayman Dahman and Gilan Al Shaal Me and Muhammad Ali bin Ramadan, Wahbi Al-Khazri, Ali Al-Jamal, and Muhammad Amin bin Hamidah are infected with Covid-19, and they have been isolated from the group,” Tunisia confirmed on their social media pages.

Meanwhile, Mohamed Drager, who was among the six players to have tested positive before they took on Al-Murabitun, has recovered from the setback.

“On the contrary, the tests have confirmed the recovery of Mohamed Drager, among the six players who have recently been infected with the coronavirus and are undergoing a period of time health check-up and round-up rapid tests,” the statement continued.

Apart from Drager, the other players down with Covid-19 include Osama Al-Hadadi, Naim Al-Seliti, Johan Touzghar, Asam Al-Jabali, and Dylan Bronn.

The Carthage Eagles began their campaign in Cameroon with a 1-0 loss to Mali before recovering to beat Mauritania 4-0.

They’re third in Group F with three points. Gambia and Mali, who are first and second respectively, are level on 4 points.