Morocco v Tunisia – Live African Nations Cup 2012

It’s a clash of North African nations on Monday evening as Morocco take on Tunisia in their first group game of the 2012 African Cup Of Nations, and it’s Morocco that look to have all the ingredients to begin their quest with a victory.

Morocco won their qualification group without particularly impressing, but will consider themselves one of the teams that can mount a challenge in this tournament.

There is plenty of European experience in the Moroccan squad, which includes captain and Fiorentina midfielder Houssine Kharja, Arsenal striker Marouane Chamakh and QPR playmaker Adel Taraabt.

Chamakh hasn’t played a huge part for Arsenal this season, and Adel Taraabt has been rather inconsistent at club level, but their quality is clearly evident at this level, and could prove vital to their chances of progression.

Paddy Power Match Odds
Morocco 6/4
Draw 2/1
Tunisia 2/1

Morocco’s squad looks so much stronger than what Tunisia boss Sam Trabelsi has at his disposal.

Tunisia failed to get beyond the group stage in Angola two years ago, and although qualifying from Group C looks likely for both of these teams considering their other opponents (Gabon and Niger), they will struggle in the latter stages.

Tunisia have 11 players plying their trade in their nations domestic league which is not known for quality football and they just don’t look strong enough to challenge for the honours.

With this in mind, Morocco look a great bet at a best price of 6/4 with Paddy Power to make a winning start. Taraabt and Chamakh should make an impact at this level and should orchestrate a victory over an average at best Tunisia side.