View 3 more
Morocco Younes Belhanda, left, is challenged by Tunisia Khaled Korbi during their African Cup of Nations Group C soccer match at Stade De L'Amitie in Libreville, Gabon, Monday, Jan. 23, 2012. Francois Mori, Associated Press
View 3 more
Morocco's Nordin Amrabat, right, is tackled by Tunisia's Ammar Jemal during their African Cup of Nations Group C soccer match at Stade De L'Amitie in Libreville, Gabon, Monday, Jan. 23, 2012. Francois Mori, Associated Press
View 3 more
Tunisia soccer players celebrate after scoring a goal against Morocco during their African Cup of Nations Group C soccer match at Stade De L'Amitie in Libreville, Gabon, Monday, Jan. 23, 2012. Francois Mori, Associated Press
View 3 more
Morocco's Marouane Chamakh, center, make his way past Tunisia's captain Karim Haggui, left and Aymen Abdennour during their African Cup of Nations Group C soccer match at Stade De L'Amitie in Libreville, Gabon, Monday, Jan. 23, 2012. Francois Mori, Associated Press
By Associated Press

LIBREVILLE, Gabon — Tunisia edged out a wasteful Morocco 2-1 in their derby at the African Cup of Nations on Monday to join co-host Gabon with an opening-night win in Group C.

Saber Khalifa's faint touch on Khaled Korbi's 34th-minute free kick helped guide the ball home and send Tunisia into a surprise lead over its North African rival. Substitute Youssef Msakni made it 2-0 with a fine solo run and finish in the 76th.

Houssine Kharja scored a contentious late goal for Morocco to set up a nervous finish for the Tunisians at Stade de l'Amitie. Ahmed Kantari was clearly offside when he set up Morocco's captain.

View Comments

Kharja nearly stole a point for Eric Gerets' disappointing team in stoppage time but he fired just over the crossbar.

Join the Conversation
Looking for comments?
Find comments in their new home! Click the buttons at the top or within the article to view them — or use the button below for quick access.