“We consider it appropriate to terminate our agreement with the coach after the team’s setbacks”, Tunisian FA president Ali Hafsi told reporters.

Marchand, who guided Etoile Sahel to Champions League victory at the expense of Ahli three years ago, leaves Tunisia after just six months in charge.

The Carthage Eagles shockingly lost twice to Botswana in the qualifiers and were held to a disappointing home draw by Malawi in September.

Tunisia are currently second in Group 11 and still have a chance to make it to the finals.

It was announced that the next manager will likely be Tunisian as the 2004 African champions play their next game against Chad in June 2011.