Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Kamel GHATTAS
Published on 2024-03-19 09:30:46
After the disappointment against Hungary, the rout endured in front of Portugal, it was the end of illusions in front of Norway with a score of 41-23.
The Nordics showed no mercy and played to the fullest, giving an idea of what a motivated team can achieve. Something strange is happening within the Tunisian handball team, and now that everything is over, it is absolutely necessary to figure it out. Never has this discipline, which was rightly considered the most representative of team sports, fallen so low. Surprisingly, the players throughout this tournament seemed to… not want to play. Yet, these are elements that regularly shine within their respective teams and have a vast technical repertoire that has earned them their reputation, either at the national level or with teams that recruited them as professionals to strengthen their team.
But what led to this dismal performance that challenges many beliefs and raises many assumptions?
Reviving the flame will undoubtedly be the most important point on the agenda for the officials at all levels upon their return to Tunis. Handball does not deserve this serious disappointment that has greatly affected the morale of its fans and those who still see it capable of rising again and regaining its rightful place. This formal condition involves identifying the real problems and taking the necessary measures, however harsh they may be. We remain convinced that in this group, there is great potential, and it only takes a high-level coach to rekindle the flame and sensitivity that motivates players who refuse to be ridiculed when they know they can challenge the best.
We sincerely believe that these poor results should test the agreement and assistance protocol recently signed in France between the Tunisian federation and its French counterpart. Our French partners know exactly what we need because as is customary for all teams that turn sport into a serious discipline, everything is carefully noted, classified, and analyzed. In these federations, all selections are closely monitored, and their behavior and playing style are scrutinized to serve when needed. The weakness of the coaching staff of the Tunisian team was evident and disrupted all predictions.
The Tunisian team more than ever needs a winner, a strong leader who knows their job inside out, not individuals in the learning process. This requires a demand: it will not be a choice that follows the rule of “the least said,” but rather of the person who can revive this struggling Tunisian team and who needs a helping hand. Regaining the African title and returning to the forefront require this rigor in future decisions to be made.
Any other form of judgment will be considered futile literature.
Read the original article(French) on La Presse Tunisie
