World Cup Fallout: Tunisia Dismiss Coach Lamouchi Following Sweden Loss

Tunisia have dismissed head coach Sabri Lamouchi following the national team’s defeat to Sweden in their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, according to officials from the Tunisian Football Federation.

The decision comes less than 24 hours after Tunisia’s disappointing start to the tournament, with federation officials concluding that an immediate change was necessary to revive the team’s chances of progressing from the group stage.

In a statement, the Tunisian Football Federation confirmed Lamouchi’s departure and announced that discussions were underway to appoint Mondher Kebaier as interim national team coach for the remainder of the competition.

Lamouchi, a former Ivory Coast and Qatar coach, had been tasked with guiding Tunisia through a challenging World Cup campaign. However, the defeat to Sweden intensified pressure on the coaching staff, with critics pointing to tactical shortcomings and the team’s inability to convert scoring opportunities.

Federation officials reportedly believe that a change in leadership could provide the squad with a psychological boost ahead of its remaining group-stage matches. The move reflects the urgency surrounding Tunisia’s World Cup ambitions, as another defeat could severely damage the team’s hopes of reaching the knockout rounds.

Kebaier is no stranger to Tunisian football. The former national team coach previously led the Carthage Eagles during the qualification campaign for the 2022 FIFA World Cup and remains a respected figure within the country’s football structure. His familiarity with many members of the current squad is seen as an advantage as Tunisia seeks stability during the tournament.

Reaction among supporters has been mixed. Some fans welcomed the federation’s swift action, arguing that the team required fresh leadership after its poor opening performance. Others questioned whether changing coaches in the middle of a World Cup campaign could create further instability.

Football analysts note that managerial changes during major international tournaments are relatively rare but not unprecedented. Such decisions are often driven by concerns over team morale, tactical direction, and the need to secure immediate results.

Tunisia now face a crucial period in their World Cup campaign, with Kebaier expected to take charge as the federation finalizes interim arrangements. The Carthage Eagles will need a strong response in their next fixture if they are to keep their hopes of advancing alive.

The federation has not yet announced whether Kebaier’s appointment will extend beyond the tournament, but officials indicated that a longer-term review of the national team’s direction will take place after the World Cup.