World Cup 2026: Hervé Renard urges Tunisia to embrace challenge against Japan

Tunisia head coach Hervé Renard has called on his players to draw inspiration from fellow African nations that have defied the odds at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, insisting that his side must show courage when they face Japan in their crucial Group F encounter.

The Carthage Eagles will take on Japan in their second group match on Saturday, seeking to bounce back from a disappointing 5-1 defeat to Sweden in their opening fixture.

Speaking ahead of the clash, Renard said recent performances by African representatives at the tournament have demonstrated that traditional football powers are not unbeatable.

“Cape Verde vs Spain and DR Congo vs Portugal give African teams hope,” Renard told reporters. “We must follow these examples and not be afraid of the big nations.”

Cape Verde stunned many observers by holding Spain to a goalless draw in Group H, while DR Congo earned widespread praise after securing a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Portugal in Group K.

Renard believes those results should serve as motivation for Tunisia as they prepare to face a Japanese side that impressed in their opening game, holding the Netherlands to a 2-2 draw.

The French tactician stressed, however, that inspiration alone will not be enough, insisting that his players must back up their ambitions with performances on the pitch.

“Talking is easy, but we have to act,” Renard said. “And tomorrow, we will act.”

Tunisia head into the encounter under pressure following their heavy opening defeat, with another loss likely to severely damage their hopes of progressing to the knockout stage.

Japan, meanwhile, will be aiming to build on their encouraging start and move closer to securing a place in the Round of 16.

With qualification prospects hanging in the balance, Saturday’s showdown promises to be a decisive test of Tunisia’s resilience and Renard’s belief that African nations can compete with the world’s elite.