World Cup History
Tunisia has appeared in 6 World Cups: 1978, 1998, 2002, 2006, 2018, and 2022. In Argentina 1978, the country's first World Cup appearance, Tunisia made history: first African victory at a World Cup by defeating Mexico 3-1 (June 3, 1978, a date every Tunisian knows). In that same tournament, Tunisia drew with the then-powerful West Germany.
At Qatar 2022, Tunisia went into the final group stage match with a chance to qualify but fell to France (0-1 in the last minute). The team has shown competitiveness at every World Cup but has never managed to advance from the group stage. For 2026, that remains the historic objective.
Key Players
Wahbi Khazri
Attacking Midfielder / Forward 路 Montpellier
Tunisia's technical leader, Khazri is the team's most creative and dangerous player. With his experience in Ligue 1 and the Premier League (Sunderland), he combines creativity, goals, and leadership. He is the player who has won most qualifying matches for Tunisia through direct contributions.
Youssef Msakni
Right Winger 路 Esp茅rance Sportive de Tunis
Msakni is Tunisia's historic star, a player who has dedicated most of his career to Tunisian and Qatari football. With his pace, technical skill, and goal-scoring ability, he is the most beloved player by Tunisian fans and a reference for the national team.
Mohamed Ali Ben Romdhane
Central Midfielder 路 Esp茅rance Sportive de Tunis
One of Tunisian football's most promising midfielders, Ben Romdhane combines defensive intensity with technical ability. His youth and hunger to succeed make him one of the players who can make a difference for Tunisia in 2026.
Aymen Dahmen
Goalkeeper 路 Esp茅rance Sportive de Tunis
Tunisia's first-choice goalkeeper, Dahmen is known for his quick reflexes and command of the area. He has been a key piece in the African qualifying that led Tunisia to 2026, with solid performances that gave the team confidence.
Dylan Bronn
Centre Back 路 Salernitana
Bronn is Tunisia's most solid centre back, with experience in Italian Serie A. His physical power, aerial ability, and tactical reading make him the team's defensive leader. His presence at the back is fundamental to the defensive solidity Tunisia needs.
Path to Qualification
Tunisia qualified for the 2026 World Cup through the CAF qualification process. With 6 previous World Cup appearances, the Eagles of Carthage have the experience and quality needed to advance through African qualifying groups.
Qualification for 2026 reinforces Tunisia's status as one of the most consistent African national teams. The Maghrebi country seeks in this tournament to advance beyond the group stage for the first time, a goal they have been pursuing since 1978.
Match Schedule
Tunisia's matches at the 2026 World Cup will be confirmed by FIFA after the official draw. Check back soon for the complete schedule with dates, venues, and kick-off times.
Frequently Asked Questions
Was Tunisia the first African team to win a World Cup match?
Yes, Tunisia was the first African nation to win a match at a World Cup. On June 3, 1978, in Argentina, Tunisia defeated Mexico 3-1 in the group stage, writing a glorious page in African football history. This victory remains a moment of national pride in Tunisia.
Has Tunisia ever advanced beyond the group stage at a World Cup?
No, Tunisia has never advanced beyond the group stage in their 6 World Cup appearances. At Qatar 2022, they came very close: they needed to win their last match against France and have other results go their way, but they lost 0-1. For 2026, advancing past the first round for the first time remains the team's great objective.
How many times has Tunisia won the Africa Cup of Nations?
Tunisia has won the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) once: in 2004, as host nation. That title remains Tunisian football's greatest international achievement and was celebrated with enormous euphoria throughout the country.
How did Tunisia qualify for the 2026 World Cup?
Tunisia qualified for the 2026 World Cup through the CAF qualification process. With their accumulated experience in 6 previous World Cups, the Eagles of Carthage navigated African qualifying with solidity to secure their place in the tournament.