The Tunisian Football Federation (TFF) has acted swiftly following the Carthage Eagles’ disastrous start to the FIFA World Cup 2026, appointing experienced French coach Herve Renard as the new head coach of the national team after the dismissal of Sabri Lamouchi.
The TFF confirmed Renard’s appointment on Tuesday, less than 24 hours after Tunisia suffered a crushing 5-1 defeat to Sweden in their opening Group F fixture at Monterrey Stadium.
Lamouchi was relieved of his duties immediately after the heavy loss, with the federation deciding that a change in leadership was necessary as the Eagles of Carthage seek to salvage their World Cup campaign.
Renard, one of the most accomplished managers in African football history, will take charge of the team for the remainder of the tournament, with reports indicating that discussions could be held regarding a longer-term arrangement depending on Tunisia’s progress and overall performance.
Renard Returns to the International Stage
The appointment marks a return to frontline international football for the 57-year-old, who most recently managed Saudi Arabia. Renard guided the Green Falcons during the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, where they famously stunned eventual champions Argentina with a memorable 2-1 victory in the group stage.
Widely respected for his ability to inspire teams in major tournaments, Renard arrives as Tunisia’s head coach with a reputation for transforming struggling sides into competitive outfits. His extensive experience on the African continent made him the standout candidate as the TFF searched for an immediate replacement for Lamouchi.
The French tactician has previously managed Zambia, Côte d’Ivoire and Morocco, building a remarkable record in African football. His greatest achievements came in the Africa Cup of Nations, where he led Zambia to a historic continental title in 2012 before repeating the feat with Côte d’Ivoire in 2015.
His success across different national teams has earned him recognition as one of the most successful foreign coaches to have worked in African football over the past two decades.
Massive Task Ahead for the New Coach
Renard inherits a Tunisia side whose confidence has been severely damaged by the defeat to Sweden. The Scandinavians dominated the opening Group F encounter and exposed defensive weaknesses that ultimately cost Lamouchi his job.
The result leaves Tunisia rooted at the bottom of their group with zero points and a goal difference of minus four after the first round of matches. Sweden currently lead the standings on three points, while Japan and the Netherlands share second and third positions respectively following their draw.
The timing of the coaching change means Renard will have limited preparation time before Tunisia’s crucial second group match against Japan on 20 June. Anything less than a victory could significantly damage the North Africans’ hopes of progressing to the knockout stages.
The former Morocco boss is expected to focus on restoring defensive discipline while improving the team’s mentality following one of the heaviest defeats in Tunisia’s World Cup history.
Hope for a Turnaround
Despite the difficult circumstances, many Tunisian supporters will take encouragement from Renard’s track record in tournament football. Throughout his coaching career, he has repeatedly demonstrated an ability to galvanise teams under pressure and deliver results when expectations are low.
His leadership qualities, tactical flexibility and familiarity with African football culture are viewed as important assets as Tunisia attempt to recover from their disappointing start.
The Eagles of Carthage still have two group matches remaining, against Japan and the Netherlands, and advancement remains mathemically possible if they can quickly rediscover form.
For now, the focus shifts to Renard and whether he can engineer another remarkable turnaround. Tunisia’s World Cup campaign appeared to be in danger after just one match, but the federation hopes the arrival of one of Africa’s most decorated coaches can breathe new life into their tournament and keep their dreams of reaching the knockout stages alive.
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