Tunisia approaches the 2026 World Cup with a solid history of competitive play, having qualified for the tournament six times since 1998. The squad boasts a blend of local talents and players from leagues in France, Germany, and the Middle East. Their upcoming participation in this World Cup is part of a tradition of competing effectively in international fixtures, including repeat showings at the Africa Cup of Nations.
How They Qualified:
Tunisia achieved their World Cup spot by leading Group H during the CAF qualifying series, winning nine of ten encounters and finishing with a remarkable goal differential of +22.
World Cup Group Stage Schedule:
- June 14: Tunisia vs. UEFA Playoff B — Monterrey Stadium, Guadalupe, Mexico (10 p.m. ET)
- June 21: Tunisia vs. Japan — Monterrey Stadium, Guadalupe, Mexico (12 a.m. ET)
- June 25: Tunisia vs. Netherlands — Kansas City Stadium (7 p.m. ET)
Previous World Cup Appearances:
- 1978, 1998, 2002, 2006, 2018, 2022
Tunisia’s Best World Cup Performance:
- Never advanced beyond the group stage.
Key Players for Tunisia:
Ellyes Skhiri commands the midfield with 74 caps, having gathered experience in both Ligue 1 and the Bundesliga with significant performances at Montpellier and Köln. Montassar Talbi adds defensive strength having secured a regular spot in AFCON and qualifying matches, while Hannibal Mejbri offers youth and creativity with his time at Manchester United and loans in England and Spain.
Tunisia’s Manager:
Sami Trabelsi took the reins of the national team again after earlier managing it from 2011 to 2013. He is celebrated for his extensive playing career, marked by stints in AFCON and the 1998 World Cup.
Leading Scorer of All Time:
Issam Jemâa claimed the record with 36 goals, representing clubs like Espérance de Tunis and Lens.
Caps Leaders:
- Rahdi Jaïdi – 105 Caps, played for Espérance de Tunis, Bolton Wanderers, and Birmingham City.
- Youssef Msakni is looking to tie Jaïdi with one cap to go, expected in the 2026 squad.
Team Nickname:
Eagles of Carthage.
About Tunisia:
- Population: Approximately 12.4 million
- Capital: Tunis
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