Tunisian fans walk away from World Cup with moral boost amid economic hardships
The historic win over France in Qatar has given Tunisian fans a morale boost in times of economic crisis and soaring cost of living.
TUNIS, Tunisia — With the country grappling with a worsening economic situation, rising prices, shortages of basic goods and rampant unemployment, Tunisians welcomed a rare occasion of joy to put their daily worries aside and cheer for the national soccer team.
Hundreds of fans converged on Habib Bourguiba Avenue, in the heart of the Tunisian capital, on the afternoon of Nov. 30 to watch the team defy world champion France.
Waving flags, old and young Tunisians, men and women, gathered in the official fan zone ahead of the 4 p.m. kick-off of a much-anticipated match, as they hoped to stand a chance to advance to the quarter finals at the Qatar World Cup, the first in an Arab country.
Others flocked to watch TV screens in cafes in the city center, gearing up to show support for the Eagles of Carthage, as Tunisia’s soccer team is known. Al-Monitor spoke to several supporters who only gave their first name for privacy reasons.
