Ali Abdi blasts Tunisian federation after World Cup exit
Following a heavy defeat to Japan and elimination from the World Cup, Tunisia defender Ali Abdi criticized the national federation's lack of stability.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0 / Author: Happiraphael
Tunisia is out of the World Cup after a heavy 0-4 defeat against Japan. Having also lost their opening match against Sweden (1-5), the team faces an early exit and a need for a total reset.
In the post-match mixed zone, defender Ali Abdi expressed his deep disappointment. He apologized to the fans for the team's performance, calling the situation "incomprehensible." He also apologized to Herve Renard, who was called in as an emergency replacement for Sabri Lamouchi, for the team's performance.
I apologize to the Tunisian supporters, not to the people who enjoy spreading rumors. It is not in the country's interest. We don't have time to work, we break everything to rebuild every time instead of correcting the flaws. Ali Abdi
The defender did not hold back his frustration regarding the federation's management. He also questioned the choices made by former coach Sabri Lamouchi, arguing that the team lacked cohesion because many players had never played together before arriving at the tournament.
The Tunisian squad list for the World Cup featured several surprises, with a number of experienced players left out. Hannibal Mejbri and his teammates have one final opportunity to salvage some pride in their last group game against the Netherlands on Thursday.