Tension Erupts Late as Tunisia and Botswana Share Spoils in Heated Draw

RADÈS, Tunisia — Tempers flared in the closing stages of Tunisia’s 2-2 draw with Botswana in their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier on Monday evening.

The incident occurred late in the match when Tunisia’s Sebastian Tounekti became involved in an argument with a member of the Botswana technical team after the ball was not returned for a restart. The situation escalated, and Tanzanian fourth official Nasir Salum stepped in to intervene. Reports indicate the official was pushed away as he attempted to calm the situation.

The match itself had been tightly contested. Botswana took the lead through Thatayaone Kgamanyane in the 37th minute. Tunisia responded with two goals from Hazem Mastouri either side of half-time, putting the hosts 2-1 ahead. Lebogang Ditsele equalised for Botswana in the 60th minute, and the score remained level until the final whistle.

The draw extends Tunisia’s winless run and leaves both sides level on two points after two matches in Group H. The late flashpoint added further frustration for the home side, who had dominated large periods of the contest but failed to convert their superiority into a winning goal.

CAF and match officials are expected to review the incident. No immediate disciplinary announcements have been made. The result leaves the group tightly poised as teams continue their campaigns to reach the 2027 AFCON finals.