World Cup 2026: Tunisia turn to Mondher Kebaier as interim coach after Lamouchi sacking

The Tunisian Football Federation has moved quickly to appoint Mondher Kebaier as interim head coach following the dismissal of Sabri Lamouchi after the team’s 5-1 World Cup thrashing by Sweden.

Kebaier, 56, is a familiar face to Tunisian football. He previously managed the Carthage Eagles from 2019 to 2022, leading them to the quarter-finals of the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations before stepping down after they failed to qualify for the 2022 World Cup.

"An agreement has been officially reached to dismiss coach Sabri Lamouchi. Plans are under way to appoint Mondher Kebaier as the national team coach on an interim basis," a statement from the Tunisian Federation read.

The former Tunisia international takes over with the team in crisis. After conceding five goals in consecutive matches — the 5-1 loss to Sweden following a 5-0 pre-World Cup friendly defeat to Belgium - Kebaier’s immediate task is to restore defensive stability and salvage some pride.

Tunisia face Japan on Sunday, June 21, and the Netherlands on June 25 in Group F. With zero points and a mountain to climb, Kebaier has been tasked with leading a squad that appears low on confidence. The federation is expected to review the position after the tournament.

For now, the veteran coach has been handed the reins — and a monumental challenge.