Renard Takes Charge of Tunisia and Sets Demanding Tone in First Session

Appointed urgently following Tunisia’s heavy defeat to Sweden (5-1) in their opening match of the 2026 World Cup, Hervé Renard took control of the Tunisian national team in Monterrey on Tuesday, just hours after Sabri Lamouchi’s dismissal.

The French coach, accustomed to rescue missions on the African continent, quickly made his mark. During a training session open to the media, he repeatedly challenged his players: “It has to be perfect! Come on, let’s focus!” before insisting: “We’re serious, we’re serious here! Come on!”

Renard had accepted the position without hesitation. “When I was contacted, I didn’t hesitate for a second,” he said upon his arrival in Mexico. “In football, as long as there’s life, there’s hope. Moreover, it’s a World Cup, it’s something exceptional. I know the passion surrounding this event and that’s what motivated me to come. It’s a challenge that isn’t easy, but it’s motivating.”

The margin for error is slim. The Eagles of Carthage, who sit bottom of their group after the Swedish drubbing, face Japan on Sunday at 6 a.m. A defeat would virtually seal their elimination from the tournament, making this match a do-or-die encounter for the North African side.