The Tunisian Football Federation has officially parted ways with national team manager Sabri Lamouchi following a heavy 5-1 defeat to Sweden in their 2026 World Cup opening match. The federation confirmed the decision, citing a need for immediate leadership changes to stabilize the squad.
Lamouchi’s tenure had been under mounting pressure following a 5-0 loss to Belgium in a pre-tournament warm-up, and the opening tournament loss served as the final catalyst for his dismissal. Under his leadership since January, the team managed only one victory in five matches.
Hervé Renard has been appointed as the new head coach for the remainder of the tournament. Renard wasted no time, arriving at the team’s training base in Monterrey, Mexico, to lead his first session. Addressing the players, Renard emphasized the importance of national representation and the need to move past the opening defeat.
Tunisia now faces a critical Group F encounter against Japan on Sunday, June 21, at Monterrey Stadium. The team enters the match desperate for points to remain in contention, while Japan arrives with momentum following a 2-2 draw with the Netherlands. Renard has tasked the squad with maintaining focus on internal tactical discipline as they prepare for the must-win fixture.