Sport
Africa Cup of Nations 2012 Update: Gabon, Tunisia advance to quarterfinals
Tunisia and co-hosts Gabon secured dramatic last-gasp victories to reach the quarterfinals of the Africa Cup of Nations Friday.
Tunisia needed a final minute goal from Issam Jemaa to beat Niger 2-1 while Gabon came from behind to beat Morocco 3-2 with their winner in the eighth minute of added time.
It left them tied on six points and assured of a place in the last eight, while Morocco and debutants Niger are going home and are pointless with a match to play in Group C.
The first game in Libreville saw Niger put up a brave challenge and Tunisia coach Sami Trabelsi was relieved by his team’s victory.
“We knew Niger would be well organized and rigorous on the counter attack. The spirit of my team was there for all to see. Thank God we were able to win, thank God,” he told AFP. Tunisia were ahead after only three minutes when Youssef Msakni beat several defenders before shooting home.
