Tunisia have dismissed head coach Sabri Lamouchi following the country’s disappointing start to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where the Eagles of Carthage suffered a humiliating 5-1 defeat to Sweden in their opening Group F match.
The decision was taken after an emergency meeting of the Tunisian Football Federation (FTF), according to multiple reports, bringing an abrupt end to Lamouchi’s brief spell in charge.
Short reign comes to an early end
Lamouchi, 54, was appointed earlier this year following the dismissal of former coach Sami Trabelsi after Tunisia’s round-of-16 exit at the Africa Cup of Nations.
However, the former Ivory Coast international lasted just five matches at the helm. Although he began his tenure with a 1-0 victory over Haiti, results quickly deteriorated.
Tunisia failed to score in a goalless draw against Canada before suffering successive defeats to Austria, Belgium and Sweden. The 5-0 loss to Belgium in their final World Cup warm-up game had already increased pressure on the coaching staff.
The crushing defeat against Sweden proved to be the final blow, with federation officials reportedly deciding a change was necessary to revive Tunisia’s campaign.
Attention turns to replacement
Reports have linked several candidates with the vacant position as Tunisia scramble to keep their World Cup hopes alive.
Former Tunisia captain and ex-Sunderland winger Wahbi Khazri has emerged as one possible option, while former national team coach Mondher Kebaier is also being considered.
Kebaier previously guided Tunisia at the 2022 FIFA World Cup and remains a familiar figure within the federation.
Tunisia’s immediate focus will now be on their next Group F fixture against Japan on June 20.
After conceding five goals in their opening match, the North Africans face a difficult challenge to revive their tournament and avoid an early exit.
The federation is expected to announce an interim or permanent replacement soon.
