Mohamed Amine Ben Hamida: Japan will be aiming to take a major step towards the Round of 16 when they face Tunisia in their second Group F fixture of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. After earning a hard-fought point against the Netherlands in their opening match, the Samurai Blue know that a win would leave them on the brink of qualifying for a third consecutive knockout-stage appearance.
Their campaign began with an impressive display of resilience, as Japan twice came from behind to secure a 2-2 draw against the Dutch. The result not only showcased their character but also strengthened their position in a group where every point could prove decisive.
Tunisia, by contrast, arrive under considerable pressure after suffering a heavy 5-1 defeat to Sweden in their tournament opener. Only Curaçao's 7-1 loss to Germany was more lopsided in the opening round. The setback came on the heels of a 5-0 friendly defeat to Belgium, prompting the dismissal of head coach Sabri Lamouchi. Former Saudi Arabia boss Hervé Renard has since been appointed to stabilise the team and revive its campaign.
