A spirited Namibia side overcame the odds to record a famous 1-0 victory over Tunisia in their opening Group E clash at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations on Tuesday at the Amadou Gon Coulibaly Stadium, Korhogo.
In what was just their third appearance at the continental championship, Namibia notched their first ever AFCON win thanks to an 88th minute header from striker Deon Hotto.
The Orlando Pirates frontman rose highest in the box to freely power Bethuel Muzeu’s pinpoint cross into the top corner, sparking wild celebrations.
Tunisia enjoyed the lion’s share of possession and chances at Stade de Korhogo, but found Namibian goalkeeper Lloyd Kazapua in inspired form whenever they did threaten. The 2004 champions went close early on when veteran forward Taha Yassine Khenissi forced a fine stop from Kazapua.
At the other end, Namibia grew into the game and caused problems of their own. Captain Peter Shalulile, fresh off leading Mamelodi Sundowns to the South African league title, nearly opened the scoring but was denied by keeper Bechir Ben Said.
As the game wore on, Tunisia became increasingly desperate for a goal to avoid the upset. But the Namibian defense held firm, soaking up the pressure while launching counters.
Their persistence paid off when Hotto snuck in unmarked to head home Muzeu’s cross to spark unbridled celebrations. The Brave Warriors nearly doubled their lead in added time, but Hotto’s second goal was ruled out for offside.
The Tunisian defense was finally breached late on by the towering Hotto, who had a second goal ruled out for offside in added time.
In the end, Namibia held on for a famous 1-0 victory that will go down in their football folklore after drawing twice and lost seven times in their previous AFCON appearances.
For Tunisia, the shock defeat puts pressure on them right from the start as they seek progression from a tight Group E also containing Mali and Mauritania.
