Sunday June 21, 2026
- Estadio Monterrey 7am [EAT]
Herve Renard will hope to make an instant impact with Tunisia when they face Japan in a Group F encounter at the Estadio Monterrey on Sunday morning at 7am [EAT].
The French tactician was appointed following the sacking of Sabri Lamouchi after Tunisia were thumped 5-1 by Sweden in their world cup 2026 opening match.
Speaking to the press, Renard who masterminded Saudi Arabia’s victory over Argentina in 2022 edition said he has no excuses ahead of the clash against Japan, a side that held Netherlands in a four-goal thriller.
“There are no excuses,” he said at a press conference 24 hours before kick-off. “We have to dig deep and find the resources to win a match that will restore belief and lift a nation still reeling from a disappointing opener,” he added.
In a morale boosting speech to the players that went viral on his maiden meeting, Renard who has managed Zambia, Morocco and Cote d’Ivoire said;
“If we were to go home today, you know what would happen. People are angry, and that’s understandable. But we’re at the World Cup. We have to respond, and fast. You’re fortunate to be here. So now we go again – let’s put things right!”
Meanwhile, Tunisia captain Ellys Skhiri says the arrival of Renard has lifted the mood in the camp.
“He brings a different energy and mindset. We’re following his lead, because it’s about what’s best for the team,” said the Eintracht Frankfurt midfielder.
Tunisia have only won just once in six previous matches in all competitions while Japan are unbeaten in that period with five wins and one draw.
How to watch
All 104 matches will be live on DStv on four dedicated FIFA World Cup Channels in multiple languages. The Channels are FIFA World Cup Central (Channel 222), FIFA World Cup Extra (Channel 223), FIFA World Cup Pass (Channel 225), and FIFA World Cup Swahili (Channel 224).
