Tunisia have become the first African side to be eliminated from the World Cup after suffering a heavy 4–0 defeat to Japan in Mexico on Saturday.
The result follows a 5–1 loss to Sweden in their opening Group F match, bringing Tunisia’s total to nine goals conceded in just two games and confirming their inability to progress to the knockout stage regardless of their final group fixture against the Netherlands.
The North African side entered the tournament under significant pressure after a disappointing start to their campaign, which led to the departure of head coach Sabri Lamouchi following the opening defeat to Sweden.
He was replaced by Hervé Renard ahead of the clash with Japan in a bid to stabilise the team and revive their qualification hopes.
However, the managerial change failed to produce the desired turnaround, as Tunisia struggled defensively once again and were comprehensively beaten.
Fans expressed frustration at the team’s performance and the broader direction of the squad.
Tunisia supporter Samih Kadry said the late coaching change did not resolve deeper issues within the team.
“I think that are a lot more things that should be changed. It’s a disappointment actually. We came from Paris, we came from Tunisia, from all over the place to support the team but it’s a bit of a disappointment,” he said.
With qualification now out of reach, Tunisia will face the Netherlands in their final Group F match in what will serve only as a chance to restore pride before exiting the tournament.
Despite the early elimination, supporters are expected to continue backing the Eagles of Carthage as they conclude their World Cup campaign.
