Tunisia head coach Sabri Lamouchi has declared that reaching the knockout rounds of the 2026 FIFA World Cup remains the team’s primary objective, despite widespread skepticism over the Carthage Eagles’ chances of advancing from a difficult Group F.
Speaking ahead of Tunisia’s tournament campaign, Lamouchi made it clear that belief inside the dressing room matters more than outside opinions.
“We have one objective: to qualify for the second round. Few people believe in us, but I believe. The most important thing is making my players believe it’s possible,” Lamouchi said.
The former Ivory Coast and Nottingham Forest manager took charge of Tunisia earlier this year following the departure of Sami Trabelsi and inherited a side that qualified for the World Cup without conceding a single goal. Despite that impressive defensive record, Tunisia enter the tournament as underdogs in a group featuring the Netherlands, Sweden and Japan.
Tunisia have never progressed beyond the group stage in six previous World Cup appearances, making qualification for the Round of 32 one of the most significant targets in the nation’s football history. Lamouchi, however, believes the dream is realistic if his players embrace the challenge and maintain faith in their abilities.
The coach has repeatedly emphasized the importance of mentality, noting in recent interviews that ambition alone is not enough without collective sacrifice, discipline and confidence. He has urged his players to leave the tournament with no regrets regardless of the outcome.
Lamouchi also lightened the mood with a humorous reference to former Tunisia star Wahbi Khazri, whose influence around the national team remains strong despite his international retirement.
“Wahbi Khazri still trains with us sometimes and has so much quality. Humor aside, I wish I could play him!” Lamouchi joked.
Khazri remains one of the most celebrated figures in modern Tunisian football. The former captain scored Tunisia’s memorable winner against France at the 2022 World Cup and finished his international career with 25 goals in 74 appearances.
Lamouchi’s confidence comes at a time when Tunisia are undergoing a transition. Several veteran players have been omitted as the coach reshapes an aging squad and introduces younger talent in an effort to inject greater energy and creativity into the team.
Yet the coach remains convinced that his side can surprise more fancied opponents. With Tunisia seeking a historic first appearance in the knockout rounds, Lamouchi has made it clear that belief—not reputation—will determine how far the Carthage Eagles can fly in North America.
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