Women's Football. Tunisia. 1st League
The First Women's League of Tunisia is the top tier of national women's football, where leading clubs vie for the championship and spots in African competitions. Featuring 10-12 teams from various regions, it serves as a key platform for growing women's soccer in a nation where the sport is steadily gaining traction.
History and foundation
Established in the early 2000s under the Tunisian Football Federation (FTF), with official seasons starting around 2005. Early dominance by Tunis-based sides like Club Sportif de Hammam-Lif and AS Banque de Tunisie women's teams. The 2010s saw a breakthrough with Widad AC, the first provincial champion in 2012 after a thrilling race. Notably, in 2018, matches aired on national TV, drawing thousands of fans. The national team, fueled by league stars, qualified for the 2018 World Cup.
Tournament format
Played in a double round-robin format with 10-12 teams (20-22 matches each), plus playoffs. The winner claims the title and CAF Champions Cup berth. Silver and bronze fight for other continental spots. Bottom two face relegation to Segunda Division, heightening drama.
Interesting facts
Average goals per game: 2.8, emphasizing counterattacks and set pieces. Top scorers: Selima Bengarbitt (85 league goals, Widad AC), Aida Andolsi (hat-trick record). Standouts: National captain Chaïma Refga (dynamic midfielder, 50+ assists), striker Nadia Messoud (AS Bank leader), and ex-player Mariem Jerbi, Tunisia's first in European clubs. The league nurtures African talents.