Tunisia’s disappointing 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign came to an end after a 4-0 defeat to Japan confirmed their elimination from the tournament.
The North Africans arrived at the match under new coach Herve Renard following the dismissal of Sabri Lamouchi after a heavy loss to Sweden, but the managerial change failed to spark an improvement as Japan dominated from start to finish in Monterrey, Mexico.
The defeat leaves Tunisia without a point from two matches and unable to qualify for the knockout stage ahead of their final Group F fixture against the Netherlands.
Japan strike early and take control
Japan wasted little time asserting their superiority, opening the scoring within four minutes through Daichi Kamada.
The Crystal Palace midfielder finished off a quick counter-attack with a close-range effort after Tunisia were caught out defensively.
The Asian side doubled their advantage soon after when Ayase Ueda produced a composed finish from the edge of the penalty area, sending the ball into the far corner after finding space in a stretched Tunisian defence.
Tunisia struggled to respond and found themselves repeatedly outplayed by Japan’s quick passing and intelligent movement.
Ueda nets brace as Tunisia crash out
Japan continued to create chances throughout the second half and extended their lead when Junya Ito raced through on goal and calmly beat goalkeeper Aymen Dahmen.
Ueda then completed the scoring by heading into the far corner to claim his second goal of the match and cap an impressive team performance.
Tunisia rarely threatened the Japanese goal and lacked the creativity needed to trouble a disciplined opponent.
Their attacks were comfortably contained as Japan controlled possession and dictated the entire game.
The result moves Japan four points and puts them in a strong position to reach the round of 32. They can secure qualification outright when they face Sweden in their final group match.
For Tunisia, the defeat marks the end of a turbulent World Cup campaign that has included a coaching change and back-to-back heavy losses.
They will conclude their tournament against group leaders the Netherlands, but their hopes of progressing are already over.