Tunisia sack coach Lamouchi after defeat to Sweden

Tunisia have sacked head coach Sabri Lamouchi just days into the FIFA World Cup 2026, following a heavy 5–1 defeat to Sweden in their Group F opener, the country’s football federation confirmed on Monday (June 15).

The decision came only hours after the match, marking one of the earliest managerial dismissals in recent World Cup history.

In the Group F clash, Sweden—coached by Graham Potter—overpowered Tunisia with goals from Yasin Ayari (two), along with strikes from Alexander Isak, Viktor Gyökeres and Mattias Svanberg. Tunisia’s only goal came from Omar Rekik in a consolation effort.

Lamouchi, who took charge in January, lasted just five matches in his tenure as Tunisia head coach.

Spanish journalist Roman Molina first reported the dismissal on social media platform X, with British reporter Ben Jacobs later confirming that an official announcement from the Tunisian Football Federation was imminent. Assistant coach Mondher Kebaier is expected to take interim charge, having previously led the national team between 2019 and 2022.

Reports from Tunisian media also suggested that off-field tensions may have contributed to the decision, including an alleged altercation involving Lamouchi’s son and a supporter after the Sweden match.

Despite regular World Cup participation—having qualified seven times—Tunisia have never progressed beyond the group stage. They will next face Japan on June 21 in a crucial must-win encounter, potentially under new leadership on the touchline.