French football manager and former midfielder
A roundup of how African, Arab and European teams are finalising squads and tactics for the 2026 World Cup in North America. Managers reshuffle, injuries and tactical changes shape expectations as teams prepare to the tournament. The Guardian and other outlets report on Egypt, DR Congo, Jordan, Tunisia, and more as they approach their first appearances or campaigns.
Sweden has clawed back into form after a dismal World Cup qualifying, with Isak and Gyökeres headlining a new, more fluid attack under Graham Potter. Sweden’s manager is guiding a fast, flexible system that contrasts with a poor recent qualification campaign, and the team is showing signs of progress ahead of the finals.
Tunisia has dismissed Sabri Lamouchi after a 5-1 opening loss to Sweden and has appointed Hervé Renard to lead the team for its remaining Group F matches. Renard has arrived in Monterrey with four days to prepare for Saturday's match against Japan and brings World Cup experience with Morocco and Saudi Arabia plus two Africa Cup of Nations titles.
Senegal has been held to a draw by France in a taut Group I opener, with strategic missteps and a late deficit preventing a positive result. Senegal’s captain says the side showed quality in the first half but could not sustain pressure, while France’s Mbappe sealed the win. Meanwhile, Tunisia has appointed Hervé Renard as head coach after a 5-1 loss to Sweden, aiming to spark a Group F recovery.
Tunisia has dismissed coach Sabri Lamouchi after a 5-1 loss to Sweden and has appointed Hervé Renard to lead the team as World Cup progress remains uncertain. Renard is preparing a squad that faces Japan with the goal of advancing from Group F, despite an upstart schedule and a short preparation window.
Japan has defeated Tunisia 4-0 in Monterrey, moving into second place in Group F on four points, behind the Netherlands on goal difference. Ayase Ueda scored twice, with Daichi Kamada and Junya Ito also on target as Japan control the match from start to finish. Tunisia’s hopes of knockout qualification are dashed after consecutive heavy defeats.
Africa’s Women’s Cup of Nations 2026 will begin in Rabat on July 26, with 16 teams competing in 34 matches. Nigeria defends the title, hosts Morocco face Kenya, and group play leads to knockout rounds, with the tournament also serving as a 2027 World Cup qualifier. Clubs and fan interest ramp up as Europe’s season approaches.