18 Dec 2025

As the senior national team, the Zebras, depart their training camp on Friday en route to Morocco for the AFCON finals, confidence is high following a productive camp in the coastal town of Tabarka, north-western Tunisia.

The players underwent high-intensity sessions, timely preparations given the demands of Group D, which features Senegal, DR Congo and Benin. Head coach Morena Ramoreboli left nothing to chance in selecting his final squad, with the South African tactician applying a meticulous approach to assemble a balanced and competitive unit.

Ramoreboli has stressed the importance of total commitment, reminding players that they will be fighting for the badge. In football, the opening match often sets the tone, and the Zebras’ first Group D fixture against Senegal on December 23 at Tangier Grand Stadium will be crucial.

While Senegal may be favourites on paper, football is unpredictable. The Zebras have gone there to compete, not merely to participate and opponents should not underestimate them on the basis of FIFA rankings. Ramoreboli described the Tabarka camp as a success, citing the intensity and quality of the sessions.

“I also want to give credit to the players, particularly the senior ones, for ensuring that the physical and physiological aspects were addressed so that everyone is ready,” he said.

He added that the team benefited greatly from the structure of the camp, which concludes with a preparatory match against Tunisia on Thursday (December 18). The fixture, he explained, was aimed at sharpening performance ahead of the Senegal clash.

“For the first time since I’ve been with the team, this is the longest period we’ve spent together. It has already helped to bring everyone together,” Ramoreboli noted.

He said the camp also improved players’ understanding of his tactical demands.

“It was a blessing in disguise that we managed to have this camp. The understanding and team spirit are high, and we have been pushing one another to achieve our goal,” he said.

After facing Senegal, the Zebras will meet Benin on December 27 at the Stade Olympique Annexe Complexe Sportif Prince Abdellah. Their final Group D match will be against DR Congo national football team on December 30 at Al Medina Stadium. BOPA