Tunisia coach Hervé Renard urges players ahead of World Cup clash with Japan

French coach Hervé Renard, appointed as Tunisia’s head coach after the 5‑1 defeat to Sweden that led to Sabri Lamouchi’s dismissal, addressed the squad in Monterrey ahead of their Group F match against Japan at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Renard stressed the need for mental strength, unity and concentration, telling the players, “The strongest will be those strongest mentally,” and urging them to put the heavy loss behind them and focus on the upcoming game.

He highlighted that Tunisia still controls its destiny, with three group matches remaining, and that a win over Japan would revive their qualification hopes. Renard referenced his own World Cup experience, having guided Saudi Arabia to a shock victory over Argentina in 2022 and Morocco to a draw against Spain in 2018, and described the challenge as “not easy” but a motivation for him. The coach also reminded the team of the support of Tunisian fans who have travelled to the United States, emphasizing the honour of wearing the national jersey.

Renard’s brief but direct message aims to restore confidence after consecutive heavy defeats, including a 0‑5 loss in a friendly to Belgium. He expects the players to maintain focus, keep their heads up, and represent their country with determination against Japan on June 21, before facing the Netherlands later in the group stage.