Tunisia's 2026 World Cup Squad: The Eagles of Carthage Soar Again in Group F

Tunisia arrive at the 2026 FIFA World Cup as one of Africa's most experienced international football nations — making their sixth World Cup appearance and bringing a squad packed with European-based talent to face the Netherlands, Japan, and Sweden in Group F.

Tunisia's World Cup History

Tunisia first appeared at the World Cup in 1978 — becoming the first African nation to win a World Cup match when they beat Mexico 3-1 in Argentina. In 2022, they came agonisingly close to qualifying from their group, defeating France 1-0 in their final game but being eliminated on goal difference. That result — beating the defending world champions — showcased exactly what Tunisia are capable of on their best day.

The Squad

Tunisia's 2026 squad is built around a core of players from Ligue 1, Serie A, and other European leagues. Hannibal Mejbri — Manchester United's creative midfielder — is the squad's most recognisable European-based talent, providing technical quality and creative spark in the engine room. Alongside him, a blend of domestic Tunisian league players and European-based professionals gives coach Jalel Kadri a well-balanced squad.

Group F: The Netherlands & Japan Challenge

Tunisia face the Netherlands and Japan — two of the tournament's most technically sophisticated sides — alongside Sweden in Group F. Their opener against Japan in Guadalajara on June 12 is effectively a must-win fixture if Tunisia are to have any realistic chance of advancing. A positive result there would transform the group's dynamics entirely and give the Eagles of Carthage a platform to build from.

The Dark Horse at +150000

Tunisia are listed at +150000 in the tournament winner odds — one of the longest shots in the entire field. But tournament outcomes are not decided in the betting markets; they are decided on the pitch. If Tunisia can replicate the spirit and organisation that beat France in 2022, they are capable of producing results that shock the world. In a 48-team tournament with more matches and more opportunities than ever, the Eagles of Carthage have the chance to write one of 2026's great stories.