A landmark occasion awaits at Estadio Monterrey in Guadalupe on Sunday when Tunisia lock horns with Japan in a pivotal Group F encounter at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Beyond the battle for crucial points, the fixture will be remembered as the 1,000th match ever played in World Cup history, adding an extra layer of significance to an already compelling contest.
Tunisia vs Japan match preview
For Tunisia, the match also marks the beginning of a new era under experienced French tactician Herve Renard. The former Saudi Arabia and Morocco boss was appointed in dramatic circumstances after Tunisia’s disastrous tournament opener, a crushing 5-1 defeat to Sweden that brought an abrupt end to Sabri Lamouchi‘s brief reign. Having been appointed only in January, Lamouchi departed after overseeing just five matches.
The Eagles of Carthage arrive under immense pressure. Ranked 55th in the latest FIFA standings, Tunisia have struggled for consistency, managing only one victory in their last eight internationals while suffering five defeats. Their recent form paints an even grimmer picture, with three consecutive losses yielding an aggregate score of 11-1.
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Yet Tunisia can draw inspiration from previous World Cup campaigns. They secured victories at both the 2018 and 2022 editions and will hope history can repeat itself when they face familiar opponents. The North Africans famously defeated Japan 3-0 in the final of the Kirin Cup four years ago, a result that serves as a reminder of their capability on the international stage.
Japan, however, arrive as clear favourites and remain one of the tournament’s most highly regarded outsiders. The Samurai Blue showcased their resilience in their opening fixture, twice coming from behind to salvage a 2-2 draw against the Netherlands and keep their qualification hopes firmly alive.
Currently ranked 17th in the world, Japan know victory would place them in a commanding position ahead of their decisive final group match against Sweden. Hajime Moriyasu’s side have also enjoyed considerable success against Tunisia historically, winning five of the previous six meetings between the nations, including a convincing 2-0 friendly triumph in Kobe in October 2023.
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Prediction
Japan’s superior form, depth and momentum make them overwhelming favourites heading into this historic encounter. Expect the Samurai Blue to secure all three points and move a step closer to the knockout stages.
Betting tip: Tunisia 1-3 Japan with odds of 1.53 on 1xbet.
Team news
Tunisia’s attacking hopes could rest on the shoulders of Firas Chaouat. The forward enters the contest as the most prolific international attacker in the current squad with six goals and is expected to spearhead the frontline ahead of Hazem Mastouri and Elias Saad.
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Japan, meanwhile, have suffered a significant setback with the loss of influential attacker Takefusa Kubo. The Real Sociedad star sustained a knee injury during the draw with the Netherlands and was later seen leaving the stadium in a wheelchair. His absence could prompt the return of Yukinari Sugawara at right wing-back, freeing Ritsu Doan to join Daizen Maeda and Ayase Ueda in an attack-minded front three.
Player to watch
Omar Rekik
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The defender provided Tunisia’s lone bright moment against Sweden by scoring their only goal and now Omar Rekik will be tasked with helping steady a fragile backline.
