
First manager sacked at the 2026 World Cup
Tunisia coach Sabri Lamouchi has been sacked following the heavy 1-5 defeat to Sweden, becoming the first manager dismissed at the 2026 World Cup.
Tunisia coach Sabri Lamouchi has been fired following this morning's 5-1 thrashing by Sweden, according to Guardian and New York Times reporter Romain Molina. Earlier in the day, Tunisian radio station Mosaique FM reported that federation officials had called an emergency meeting to discuss Lamouchi's removal, with his assistant Wahbi Khazri — a former Sunderland player — potentially being promoted to take charge.
Lamouchi had already faced criticism for tactical failings following pre-tournament defeats to Austria (0-1) and Belgium (1-5). According to the radio station, the post-match atmosphere was further soured by an altercation between Lamouchi's son — who holds an unspecified role within the squad — and a supporter.
Tunisia defender Mohamed Amine Ben Hamida apologised after the defeat. "We will try to improve and exit the next match with honour. We apologise to the public in Tunisia. We need to be more focused going forward," said the Espérance Tunis player.