For part 16 of the series, I caught up with Bessam Ammar (who is currently blogging at the Tunisia World Cup Blog). Bessam is an American–Tunisian. Most of his family resides in Tunisia and he has visited the country on several occasions for extended periods of time. He is an avid football supporter and became hooked on the world cup starting with Italia 1990. He used to watch the matches and then play football outside during halftime back then in the wonder years. Nothing would bring him more joy then the underdog nation Tunisia, lifting the cup, Bessam says.

I thank Bessam for agreeing to the interview.

Tell us a bit about the Tunisian football history and the football culture which exists.

History: The Tunisian National Team nickname is the Carthage Eagles. Tunisia has qualified for 4 World Cups including the last 3. Our first World Cup, however, in 1978 was the most successful. Tunisia defeated Mexico 3-1 and held defending champs West Germany to a 0-0 draw. Somehow they didn’t make it to the 2nd round. Tunisia has also recently won the African Nations cup for the first time in 2004. You might call this the golden age of Tunisian football because there has been a prolonged period of general success. Club football in Tunisia has been around for about 75 years. The Fédération Tunisienne de Football is the body that has been governing Tunisian football since 1956. Club football is a vibrant part of Tunisia and we have many youth that aspire to play for their favorite club.

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