Historic 1-1: Tunisia Stands Tall as Brazil Is Forced to Share the Points
18 November 2025
Historic 1-1 Draw Between Tunisia and Brazil
Tunisia secured a positive and historic point from Brazil in a 1-1 friendly in Lille, demonstrating discipline and tactical maturity as they sharpen their sights for the Africa Cup of Nations.
Under the guidance of Sami Trabelsi, the Carthage Eagles defended stoutly and pressed with purpose, keeping one of world football's heavyweights honest throughout the evening.
The Tunisian opener came in the 23rd minute when Hazem Mostouri finished a well-worked move on the left after a cross from Ali Al-Abidi, giving Tunisia the lead and signaling their intent to test Brazil’s high-speed attack.
Brazil dominated possession (roughly 73%), but Tunisia's organized defense and quick counter ideas kept the scoreboard in check, preventing the Selecao from unleashing their full offensive arsenal for long spells.
Estevao equalized for Brazil with a penalty late in the first half after a VAR review, and the teams went into the break level at 1-1.
In the second half, Brazil's defense faced a blow when Eder Militao picked up an injury in the 60th minute and was replaced by Fabrizio Bruno, disrupting the rhythm of Brazil's backline.
Brazil appeared close to a winner, but in the 78th minute Lucas Paquetá missed a second spot-kick, keeping Tunisia in the encounter and preserving the draw.
The final 1-1 result followed a sequence of successful friendlies for Tunisia as they prepare for the Africa Cup of Nations, including wins against Jordan and Namibia and a broader set of results against regional rivals.
Sami Trabelsi spoke about pursuing technical and strategic objectives against top opposition, stressing that the idea was to push his players to their limits to see where Tunisia stands on the road to the World Cup and beyond.
He acknowledged Brazil's immense quality and speed, but outlined a new Tunisia approach: a challenge-to-improve mindset aimed at elevating them among Africa's best. He also linked the result to Tunisia's ongoing preparations for future continental and global challenges.
Two punchlines to end on a lighter note: if defending were an art, Tunisia just earned a masterclass—and the Brazil camp left Lille with more questions than answers. Punchline two: Brazil may be the samba, but Tunisia brought the drumbeat that kept the scoreline in check.
