World Cup 2026: Tunisia 1-3 Netherlands Player Ratings

Tunisia’s difficult World Cup campaign came to an end with a 3-1 defeat to the Netherlands in Kansas City, as the Dutch secured top spot in Group F and a Round of 32 meeting with Morocco. Despite a spirited second-half response and an excellent performance from Hazem Mastouri, the Eagles of Carthage finished bottom of the group after suffering defeats to Sweden, Japan and the Netherlands.

Match Report

The match started disastrously for Tunisia. Just three minutes into the contest, captain Ellyes Skhiri inadvertently turned the ball into his own net while attempting to clear a dangerous Dutch cross. Four minutes later, Brian Brobbey doubled the Netherlands’ advantage after a clever set-piece routine involving Virgil van Dijk.

The Dutch controlled possession and created numerous opportunities during the first half, while Tunisia struggled to establish any rhythm. However, Herve Renard’s men showed far greater determination after the interval.

Their reward came in the 54th minute when Hazem Mastouri rose highest from a corner kick and powered a header beyond the Dutch goalkeeper to reduce the deficit to 2-1. For a brief moment, Tunisia threatened an unlikely comeback.

Unfortunately for the North Africans, the Netherlands restored their two-goal cushion eight minutes later. Jan Paul van Hecke’s header from a Tijjani Reijnders corner took a decisive deflection and found the back of the net, effectively ending the contest.

Despite the defeat, Tunisia’s players continued to fight until the final whistle, showing the resilience and pride that have long defined the national team.

Tunisia Player Ratings

Goalkeeper

Aymen Dahmen – 7.5

Tunisia’s best player on the night. Produced several excellent saves and prevented the scoreline from becoming far heavier.

Defence

Montassar Talbi – 6.0

Struggled against the movement of the Dutch attackers but remained committed throughout.

Ellyes Skhiri – 7.1

An unfortunate own goal early on, yet he responded admirably with a composed midfield display and strong leadership.

Amine Ben Hmida – 6.7

Worked hard defensively and offered support down the flank before being substituted.

Ali Abdi – 6.2

Had a difficult evening against the Netherlands’ pace and creativity.

Yan Valery – 6.0

Battled tirelessly but found himself under constant pressure.

Midfield

Anis Ben Slimane – 6.3

Showed flashes of quality but struggled to influence the game consistently.

Ismael Gharbi – 6.9

One of Tunisia’s brighter performers, linking midfield and attack effectively.

Rani Khedira – 6.1

Worked hard but found it difficult to impose himself physically.

Attack

Hannibal Mejbri – 7.0

Energetic and creative as always, constantly looking to drive Tunisia forward.

Hazem Mastouri – 7.8

The standout outfield player. Scored Tunisia’s only goal and caused problems for the Dutch defence all evening.

Substitutes

Mortadha Ben Ouanes – 6.7

Added fresh energy on the left side.

Mohamed Belhadj Mahmoud – 6.6

A composed contribution in midfield after coming on.

Elias Achouri – 6.6

Provided pace and direct running in the closing stages.

Firas Chaouat – 6.4

Worked hard but received limited service.

Sebastian Tounekti – N/A

Entered too late to make a significant impact.

Verdict

Hazem Mastouri and Aymen Dahmen emerged with considerable credit despite Tunisia’s elimination. The Eagles of Carthage endured a difficult tournament, but the performances of younger players such as Hannibal Mejbri, Ismael Gharbi and Mastouri offer hope for the future. Meanwhile, the Netherlands march confidently into the knockout stages after topping Group F.