Tunisian supporters rejoice after their unexpected 1-0 victory over France, but it is insufficient to keep them from departing the World Cup without moving on from Group D.
Wahbi Khazi’s goal separated the two teams, but because Australia defeated Denmark 1-0 in the other match, France and Australia advanced.
The Tunisians on the sidelines, however, became more focused on the other Group D game during stoppage time, swarming around a TV on the bench in the hopes that Denmark would be able to score against Australia, which would have propelled Tunisia into second place and into the round of 16 in Qatar.
“We were praying for a Denmark goal but it never game,” Khazri said. “But that’s the thing with soccer, you should only count on yourself. We didn’t do enough in the first two games, otherwise we’d be through.”
With six points, France ultimately won the group, beating Australia on goal differential. With four points, Tunisia came in third place. Denmark finished last with one point after losing to Australia 1-0.
The French soccer federation is currently complaining to FIFA over Antoine Griezmann’s goal that was disallowed at the end of their defeat to Tunisia.
When a cross was delivered, Griezmann was in an offside position. However, when the referee blew the whistle to end the game, Griezmann moved back and seemed to be played back.
