Tunisia Sack Lamouchi, Appoint Renard After Sweden Defeat

Tunisia have dismissed head coach Sabri Lamouchi and appointed experienced French tactician Herve Renard as his replacement following the country’s humiliating 5-1 defeat to Sweden at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The decision was announced by the Tunisian Football Federation on Monday, just a day after Tunisia suffered one of their heaviest World Cup defeats in recent history.

Federation president Moez Nassari confirmed that an agreement had been reached with Renard to lead the North African nation for the remainder of the tournament.

“The president of the Tunisian Football Federation, Moez Nassari, announced that an official agreement had been reached with French coach Herve Renard for him to take charge of the national football team until the end of the 2026 World Cup,” Tunisia’s public broadcaster reported.

Lamouchi, a former French international midfielder, had only taken charge of the Tunisian national team in January 2026.

However, Tunisia’s disappointing performances and the crushing defeat against Sweden prompted the federation to make an immediate managerial change as the team battles to remain in contention for a place in the knockout stage.

The loss leaves Tunisia facing a difficult path in Group F, with their qualification hopes now hanging in the balance.

Attention will now shift to Renard, who arrives with an impressive reputation in international football.

The 57-year-old is widely regarded as one of Africa’s most successful national team coaches, having guided both Zambia and Ivory Coast to Africa Cup of Nations titles.

Renard also gained global recognition at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar when he led Saudi Arabia to a historic 2-1 victory over eventual champions Argentina in the group stage.

Following his spell with Saudi Arabia, Renard went on to manage the France women’s national team before accepting Tunisia’s offer.

His appointment is expected to inject fresh confidence into the Tunisian squad as they prepare for a crucial Group F encounter against Japan.

The match, scheduled for Saturday, is likely to determine whether Tunisia can revive their World Cup campaign and challenge for a place in the round of 16.

Football analysts believe Renard’s extensive tournament experience and motivational leadership style could provide the spark Tunisia need after their disappointing start.

The Tunisian Football Federation will be hoping the coaching change produces an immediate impact as the Carthage Eagles seek to recover from their heavy setback and restore belief among supporters.

With qualification hopes still alive, all eyes will be on Renard as he begins his latest World Cup challenge under intense pressure and high expectations.