Already the surprise Arab victories in the opening stages have been applauded across the Arab region despite its deep political divisions.
“The victory over France was wonderful and had a special taste… Arab football regained its dignity from the former colonialists countries,” said Narredine ben Salem, sitting in the Tunis cafe where he watched the match.
As the game ended, dozens of people ran into the central Habib Bourguiba Avenue, often the site of political protests, waving flags and cheering, according to Reuters.
In the official fan zone in Tunis, about 2,000 fans had been cheering through the game, many in Tunisian national soccer shirts or with their faces painted.
“It was a beautiful victory and a convincing performance but in the end it was very harsh to be knocked out,” Ben Salem said.
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