Tunisia have become the third squad to be knocked out of the 2026 World Cup, after a devastating 4-0 loss to Japan in Group F overnight. The North African side entered the match already on the back foot after a 5-1 drubbing by Sweden in their opening game, a result that triggered the sacking of head coach Sabri Lamouchi and the appointment of Herve Renard. However, the managerial shake-up failed to ignite a turnaround as Japan ran rampant in Monterrey.
Japan Dominates in Milestone Match
Japan's resounding win leaves Tunisia with two losses from two games and zero points, meaning they're unable to advance to the knockout stages regardless of the outcome of their final group match against the Netherlands. Ayase Ueda netted twice as Japan dominated the milestone 1,000th match in World Cup history, bolstering their own chances of making it to the last 32.
Third Team Eliminated Under New FIFA Rules
Tunisia are the third country to be mathematically ejected from the tournament. They follow Turkey and Haiti, who were also eliminated after losing their first two matches due to FIFA's new regulations, reports Wales Online. The premature departures have left many fans puzzled, with all three teams still potentially able to win their final matches and finish level on points with other teams in their groups. With eight of the 12 third-placed teams progressing to the knockouts for the first time, many anticipated things would go down to the final round of group matches.
In a departure from previous tournaments where goal difference was the primary tiebreaker for teams on equal points, FIFA has now decided that head-to-head results will be the deciding factor. As such, Tunisia, Turkey and Haiti, having already suffered losses to Sweden, Australia and Paraguay, and Scotland respectively, are unable to secure a third-place finish, regardless of future outcomes.
Disappointing End for Tunisia
This marks a disappointing end for Tunisia, whose heavy losses would likely have seen them ousted even if goal difference had been the determining factor. Their impressive qualification run quickly unravelled following a 5-1 thrashing by Sweden, leading to a managerial dismissal and another significant defeat, effectively ending their World Cup aspirations. Renard, who stepped in as an emergency replacement in an attempt to salvage the campaign, conceded prior to the match against Japan that his team would need an almost flawless performance to remain in contention. However, Japan dominated from the start, sealing Tunisia's early departure.
Tunisia still have one group game left against the Netherlands on June 25, but with their elimination confirmed, it will merely be a matter of pride.
