Hannibal Mejbri sends message to Tunisia fans after Arab Cup heartache

The Manchester United youngster was in an upbeat mood despite Tunisia’s cup final loss.

Hannibal Mejbri has thanked Tunisia fans for their support of the national team in the 2021 Arab Cup final.

The Eagles of Carthage lost 2-0 to Algeria in Sunday’s Arab Cup final, after two extra-time goals from substitute Amir Sayoud and Yacine Brahimi in Qatar, to extend their 58-year wait for glory in the competition.

Ptnn comment ça fait mal à la 94em tu met un contre son camp #ArabCup2021 pic.twitter.com/qm7ze8F7f1

— Narif ⵣ (@Laeken1020_) December 15, 2021

Nonetheless, Mejbri had plenty to be pleased about. The 18-year-old impressed in a major international tournament and even got a huge ovation from fans as he came off in the 88th-minute of the final.

He leaves Qatar with a runners-up medal and renewed optimism about Tunisia’s prospects ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations.

“A big thank you for your encouragement today,” Mejbri posted on Instagram.

“We lost this final, but we have regained the confidence of the Tunisian people, let’s rise together to go for this CAN united and stronger. Thanks again to the public.”

The midfielder will now report back to Manchester United for a brief return before setting off to Cameroon next month.

Tunisia are set to begin their Africa Cup of Nations campaign against Mali on January 12 in Group F. They’ll then face Mauritania on January 16 and Gambia four days later.