Tunisia XI vs Sweden – Predicted lineup & team news for FIFA World Cup 2026 clash

Sweden and Tunisia set for first-ever World Cup clash.

The grandest footballing spectacle, the 2026 FIFA World Cup, has commenced, with the excitement at an all-time high. Co-hosted by the USA, Canada and Mexico, the competition will return to North America for the first time since the 1994 World Cup in the USA. From powerhouses to debutants, the tournament will feature 48 nations for the first time.

The Tunisia national football team are all set for their seventh World Cup appearance, aiming to improve massively on their 2022 performance, which saw them eliminated in the group stages despite a strong showing. They will play their opening fixture against European side Sweden at the Monterrey Stadium in Mexico.

The nation’s most crucial player for the side will undoubtedly be midfielder Ellyes Skhiri. He is set to lead the nation in the tournament and anchor the team’s midfield. The defensive midfielder is tasked with protecting the side’s defence and establishing himself as one of Europe’s most tactically disciplined midfielders.

Tunisia are placed in Group F of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, considered one of the most competitive groups of the new edition. They will compete alongside the Netherlands, Japan and Sweden.

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Who all will be expected to be in the starting lineup?

Tunisia are likely set to feature in a 4-2-3-1 formation for the tournament. In defence, the manager focuses on maintaining a highly organised unit that will aim to squeeze out central space and deny cross-delivery. The team relies on a stable four-man system, with Omar Rekik and Montassar Talbi centrally tasked, paired with fullbacks Yan Valery and Ali Abdi.

The team utilises a double pivot in midfield, with captain Skhiri as the deep-lying anchor, breaking up counterattacks and shielding the defence. He will be supported by Rani Khedira, a player who uses his immense physicality and tactical discipline to disrupt opposing attackers.

In the attack, Tunisia will need the services of Hannibal Mejbri, who will serve as the nation’s primary playmaker, providing the creative force during attacks. He will assist wingers Elias Achouri and Ismaël Gharbi in stretching the opponent’s defence while providing an adequate supply for lone striker Firas Chaouat, a player known for his high work rate and lethal finishing.

Tunisia’s predicted lineup vs Sweden

Tunisia predicted lineup (4-2-3-1): Abdelmouhib Chamakh (GK); Yan Valery, Omar Rekik, Montassar Talbi, Ali Abdi; Ellyes Skhiri, Rani Khedira; Elias Achouri, Hannibal Mejbri, Ismaël Gharbi; Firas Chaouat.

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