Morocco's backline also proved stubborn resistance in a match which produced few clear-cut scoring opportunities.

That said, it took only four minutes for Morocco's defence to be exposed when the hard-working Nafti flighted in a superb cross from the right-wing which the relatively diminutive Dos Santos nodded into the goal.

A frenetic few minutes followed, as Tunisia pressed forward for a second.

Sochaux midfielder Adel Chedli picked a bad time to leave his shooting boots at home when he blasted high and wide from another Nafti centre.

A battle in the middle of the Stade Rades pitch followed with Tunisia looking to shut up shop as early as midway through the first-half, with Morocco seeking a way back into the match.

And with just a few minutes left before the interval break it seemed that Roger Lemerr's side had stifled all Morocco had to offer.

However, Hadji, who has shone in almost every game at this Cup of Nations, had another plans.

The brother of the more illustrious Mustapha, delivered a carefully weighted cross which eluded all but Mokhtari who sent his bullet header past keeper Ali Boumnijel.

Game on. But such was 100mph feeling of the opening half, things had to slow down.

The tempo did, but somebody obviously forgot to tell Fouhami that he still had to keep his reactions sharp.

Back - Next