Confirmation from the Confederation of African Football’s official ticketing platform shows that the three ticket categories for the fixture were fully booked ahead of the scheduled sales deadline, which is set for 24 hours before kick-off. The development comes as a surprise against the backdrop of relatively modest attendances recorded at several matches in the opening round of the competition.
Nigeria and Tunisia head into the contest level on three points, setting up what is widely regarded as the toughest test of the group stage for both sides. The Super Eagles opened their campaign with a 2–1 victory over Tanzania, with goals from Semi Ajayi and Ademola Lookman, while Tunisia delivered an assured performance in a 3–1 win against Uganda. With qualification for the round of 16 firmly within reach, the winner in Fez would take a decisive step toward progression.
Ticket prices were set at 300 Moroccan dirhams for Category 1, 200 dirhams for Category 2, and 100 dirhams for Category 3, with a maximum of two tickets allowed per buyer in line with safety and accessibility guidelines.
The sell-out has attracted attention partly because early matches in Fez have struggled to fill the 40,000-capacity stadium. Nigeria’s opening game against Tanzania drew an official attendance of 11,444, while several other fixtures across the tournament have been played before half-empty stands, despite a lively opening match involving host nation Morocco.
The unexpected surge in demand has prompted speculation about the likely composition of the crowd. ESPN journalist Colin Udoh drew attention to the development on social media, questioning whether the sell-out reflected strong travelling support from Tunisia or widespread interest from Moroccan fans.
“Tickets for Nigeria’s game against Tunisia are sold out. Could that be the Tunisia fans making the short flight over to support the Carthage Eagles? Or just Moroccans in love with the Super Eagles? Is this a good or not so good thing for Nigeria?” he wrote.
Tunisia’s head coach, Sami Trabelsi, has already spoken positively about the reception his team has received since arriving in Morocco. Following their opening win, he praised the hospitality of the host city and its supporters, describing the atmosphere as welcoming and encouraging for his squad.
Tunisia, who are ranked significantly higher than Tanzania in the FIFA rankings, are expected to provide a far stiffer challenge for Nigeria. Both teams will be keen to build momentum in a group that is beginning to take shape, making Saturday’s encounter one of the most anticipated fixtures of the early stages of the tournament.
With tickets sold out and qualification implications at stake, the Fez Stadium is now set to host one of the most charged atmospheres of the competition so far, offering a sharp contrast to the subdued crowds seen earlier in the group phase.