[World Cup 2026] Introducing the African teams: Tunisia aims for a historic milestone

Having brilliantly qualified for the 2026 World Cup, Tunisia will be competing in its seventh World Cup finals in North America. The first African nation to win a World Cup match in 1978, the Eagles of Carthage now dream of taking the next step by reaching the round of 16 for the first time, despite a tough group including the Netherlands, Sweden, and Japan.

Having qualified convincingly at the top of Group H in the qualifiers, Tunisia is preparing to compete in its seventh World Cup. Regulars at the final stages, the Eagles of Carthage this time harbor the ambition to surpass their previous performances and finally secure a historic qualification for the second round.

Tunisia made its World Cup debut in 1978 in Argentina. This first participation remains etched in memory as the Tunisians became the first African nation to win a match in the final stages of a World Cup thanks to their victory against Mexico (3-1).

Despite this achievement, they finished third in their group and exited the competition in the first round.

After this historic campaign, the Tunisian national team missed the 1982, 1986, 1990, and 1994 editions before returning to the world stage at the 1998 World Cup in France. Since then, they have established themselves as one of the most consistent African nations in the World Cup, with appearances in 2002, 2006, 2018, 2022, and now 2026.

Despite their consistent performance at the highest level, Tunisia has never managed to advance beyond the first round. The 2026 World Cup therefore represents a new opportunity for the Eagles of Carthage to write the most glorious chapter in their history.

However, Sabri Lamouchi's men's preparation was far from ideal. The Tunisians suffered a heavy defeat against Belgium (0-5), revealing some weaknesses ahead of the big match.

But the Franco-Tunisian coach remains confident in his squad and intends to rely on a promising generation led by Hannibal Mejbri. Having shone at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, the young midfielder is expected to be one of the North African team's key assets.

Sabri Lamouchi will also be able to count on the contribution of several dual nationals recently integrated into the squad, such as Rani Khedira and Omar Rekik. Their experience and quality could provide a valuable boost to a team seeking an upset.

The mission promises to be particularly difficult. Drawn in Group F, Tunisia will have to face the formidable teams of the Netherlands, Sweden, and Japan. A significant challenge for the Eagles of Carthage, who hope to finally take flight in the most prestigious competition in world football and confirm their status as a key African nation on the international stage.