Tunisia predicted lineup vs Japan for FIFA World Cup 2026

Hervé Renard will make his first tactical tweaks as Tunisia prepare for a crucial Group F encounter against Japan.

Tunisia will face Japan in a must-win FIFA World Cup 2026 Group F fixture on Saturday. After suffering a heavy 5-1 defeat to Sweden in their opening match, the North African nation find itself under immediate pressure heading into the second round of group-stage fixtures.

With Japan having secured a valuable 2-2 draw against the Netherlands, another setback could leave Tunisia with a mountain to climb in the race for the knockout stages.

The build-up to the match has been dominated by events off the pitch. Tunisia parted ways with Sabri Lamouchi following the defeat to Sweden. They appointed experienced coach Hervé Renard in a bid to revive their campaign.

Renard arrives with a strong international pedigree. He will be tasked with delivering an immediate response against one of the most technically gifted sides in the group. His first team selection could provide an early indication of the direction he intends to take.

Who all are expected in the starting line-up?

Mouez Chamakh is expected to continue between the posts. The goalkeeper endured a difficult outing against Sweden but is likely to retain his place. His ability to organise the backline and deal with Japan’s quick attacking combinations will be closely watched.

Mohamed Valery and Ali Abdi are expected to start as the full-backs. Both players offer energy in wide areas and could play an important role in helping Tunisia transition from defence into attack.

Karim Rekik and Montassar Talbi are likely to form the central defensive partnership. Rekik brings experience and composure on the ball. Meanwhile, Talbi’s aerial strength and physical presence make him an important figure whenever Tunisia are forced to defend deep.

Ellyes Skhiri is expected to anchor the midfield and provide the platform from which Tunisia build their attacks. His tactical awareness and ball-winning ability will be crucial against a Japanese side that moves possession quickly through central areas.

Alongside him, Nader Khedira could be entrusted with adding defensive cover and intensity. The pair will be responsible for ensuring Tunisia remain competitive in midfield while limiting the influence of Japan’s creative players.

Elias Achouri is likely to start on the left flank, where his pace and direct running can create problems for defenders. On the opposite side, Yanis Gharbi offers creativity and technical quality, giving Tunisia another route into the final third.

Hannibal Mejbri is expected to operate behind the striker and will be tasked with linking midfield and attack. His ability to carry the ball forward and create opportunities in tight spaces could be vital for Tunisia’s attacking ambitions.

Leading the line should be Hazem Chaouat. The forward will look to provide a focal point in attack while capitalising on any chances that come his way against the Japanese defence.

Predicted line-up of Tunisia against Japan

Predicted Tunisia XI vs Japan (4-2-3-1): Mouez Chamakh (GK); Mohamed Valery, Karim Rekik, Montassar Talbi, Ali Abdi; Ellyes Skhiri, Nader Khedira; Elias Achouri, Hannibal Mejbri, Yanis Gharbi; Hazem Chaouat

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