World Cup 2026: Herve Renard tells Tunisia players to forget social media and make four years of hard work count

New Tunisia coach Herve Renard has urged his players to shut out distractions from social media and focus entirely on rescuing their FIFA World Cup campaign as the Eagles of Carthage prepare for a must-win clash against Japan.

Renard was appointed on Monday following the departure of Sabri Lamouchi after Tunisia’s crushing 5-1 defeat to Sweden in their opening Group F match. The result left the North Africans at the bottom of the standings and facing a difficult task to reach the knockout stage.

The experienced Frenchman, who has built a reputation for reviving teams under pressure, has wasted little time in delivering his first message to the squad. Speaking ahead of Friday’s meeting with Japan in Monterrey, Renard called on his players to block out external noise and remain fully focused on the challenge ahead.

“Forget social media, put it aside — especially right now. Protect yourselves and keep a clear mind. We’re at the World Cup, guys.”

Renard demands focus after Sweden setback

Tunisia’s heavy loss to Sweden generated criticism and disappointment among supporters, increasing scrutiny on the squad ahead of their remaining group matches.

Renard believes the best way to respond is by concentrating on football and avoiding distractions that could undermine confidence and unity within the camp.

The 57-year-old reminded his players of the hard work required to reach the tournament and warned against allowing one difficult week to undo years of effort.

“How long did it take you to get here? Four years? Two years of qualifiers? We’re not going to throw it all away in one week.”

His appointment comes with considerable expectations. Renard remains the only coach to have won the Africa Cup of Nations with two different countries, leading Zambia to a memorable title in 2012 before guiding Ivory Coast to continental success in 2015.

He also has previous World Cup experience, most notably with Saudi Arabia, whom he inspired to a famous victory over eventual champions Argentina at Qatar 2022.

Unity key to Tunisia’s survival hopes

With Japan next on the schedule, Renard has identified togetherness as the foundation for any potential turnaround.

Tunisia still have two group matches remaining and qualification hopes are not yet mathematically over. However, another defeat would leave them on the brink of elimination.

The French coach stressed that collective effort will be essential if the Eagles are to recover from their poor start and compete against stronger opponents in the group.

“In football, you cannot win if you don’t play as a united block.”

Those words are likely to form the cornerstone of Renard’s early work as he attempts to restore confidence, organisation and belief within the squad.