AFCON 2025: Ismael Gharbi earns Man of the Match in vital Tunisia draw against Tanzania

Ismael Gharbi walked off the Olympic Stadium pitch in Rabat with the Man of the Match award after a clever, composed display in Tunisia’s 1–1 draw with Tanzania at AFCON 2025.The midfielder was at the heart of everything positive for the Carthage Eagles, constantly asking for the ball, creating danger around the box and setting the tone in a match Tunisia largely controlled before letting their advantage slip.Gharbi’s big moment arrived late in the first half. After Hazem Mastouri was fouled in the area and VAR confirmed the penalty, he took responsibility from the spot, calmly sending the goalkeeper the wrong way to give Tunisia a deserved lead just before the break. Earlier, he had already gone close with a superb left-footed curler that crashed against the post, underlining his confidence and influence in the final third.Although Feisal Salum’s second-half strike earned Tanzania a precious point, Gharbi’s performance remained the standout individual display of the night.His creativity, composure and maturity helped Tunisia secure the draw that sealed qualification for the round of 16, confirming his growing importance in the national team setup.