Tunisia dismissed recently Sabri Lamouchi after a 5‑1 loss to Sweden, becoming the first nation to sack a coach after the opening match of the 2026 World Cup. The federation turned to French tactician Herve Renard, who arrives with a résumé that includes Africa Cup of Nations titles in Africa with Zambia and Ivory Coast and World Cup stints with Morocco and Saudi Arabia.

Renard inherits a side that conceded nine goals in its first two games, including a 5‑0 friendly defeat to Belgium. Tunisia's defensive record underscores the urgency. His first test comes Sunday against Japan, followed by a clash with the Netherlands, both in Group F. The new coach has warned players to shed the “mistakes” that cost them against Sweden and to restore national pride.

Renard’s reputation as a disciplinarian and meticulous opponent scout may suit the high‑stakes environment, but he has never progressed beyond the group stage at a World Cup. Success would add a third different nation to his World Cup résumé and give Tunisia its first knockout appearance since 2002. The outcome hinges on whether his motivational methods can translate into immediate results.