Tunisia sack head coach Sabri Lamouchi after Swedish massacre
Tunisia have officially sacked head coach Sabri Lamouchi after just one match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, following a humiliating 5-1 defeat to Sweden in Monterrey. The decision has thrown Tunisia’s campaign into turmoil, with former international Wahbi Khazri tipped to step in as interim coach.
Tunisia were dismantled 5-1 by Sweden in their Group F opener at Estadio BBVA in Monterrey, Mexico.
Tunisia’s defense was exposed repeatedly, continuing a worrying trend after their 5-0 loss to Belgium in a pre-tournament friendly.
The Tunisian Football Federation convened an emergency meeting hours after the defeat and decided to part ways with Lamouchi.
Lamouchi was appointed in January 2026, succeeding Sami Trabelsi after the Africa Cup of Nations. He has had five matches in charge one win (vs Haiti), one draw (vs Canada), and three defeats (Austria, Belgium, Sweden).
Fans and pundits questioned his tactical acumen, with some describing Tunisia’s level as “closer to a U23 side” than a senior national team.
Many Tunisian fans expressed fury at both the performance and the timing of the sacking, arguing that the team’s problems run deeper than the coach.
Wahbi Khazri, a former forward and current member of the technical staff, is expected to take charge for the remainder of the tournament. Former coach Mondher Kebaier has been mentioned as a possible long-term successor.
– Upcoming Fixtures:
– Japan – June 21 in Monterrey
– Netherlands – June 25 in Kansas City
Sabri Lamouchi’s reign lasted less than six months and just one World Cup match. Tunisia faces an uphill battle in Group F, needing results against Japan and the Netherlands to avoid early elimination.
