The Tunisian Football Federation has sacked head coach Sabri Lamouchi just hours after the Carthage Eagles suffered a humiliating 5-1 defeat to Sweden in their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The French tactician’s tenure has ended abruptly following a shocking defensive collapse that saw Tunisia concede five goals in what many are calling an embarrassing display on the grandest stage.
Intense pressure from fans and federation officials mounted immediately after the full-time whistle, leading to Lamouchi becoming the first coach dismissed at this year’s global tournament.
Mondher Kebaier, a former national team manager and familiar figure in Tunisian football, has been appointed to take immediate charge of the side for the remainder of the group stage and potentially beyond.
The heavy loss to Sweden exposed deep vulnerabilities in Tunisia’s defensive organisation, despite their solid reputation coming into the competition. Lamouchi, who took over the reins earlier in 2026, could not stem the tide as Sweden’s attackers ran riot.
Kebaier now faces the daunting task of lifting team morale and reorganising the squad as Tunisia look to salvage their World Cup campaign in the remaining Group matches.
Tunisian supporters will now turn their attention to whether Kebaier can engineer a swift turnaround for the Carthage Eagles.
