World Cup 2026: Tunisia 0-4 Japan Player Ratings

Tunisia’s World Cup campaign came to a disappointing end after a heavy 4-0 defeat to Japan in Monterrey. Following their 5-1 loss to Sweden in the opening round, the Eagles of Carthage needed a response, but instead suffered another difficult night as Japan produced one of the tournament’s most dominant performances. The result officially eliminated Tunisia from Group F contention.

Match Report

Japan wasted little time asserting their authority. Daichi Kamada opened the scoring in the fourth minute before Ayase Ueda doubled the advantage before halftime. Tunisia struggled to cope with Japan’s movement, pace, and relentless pressing throughout the contest.

The second half followed a similar pattern. Junya Ito added a third goal before Ueda completed his brace late in the game, capping a comprehensive display by the Samurai Blue. Japan controlled possession, created numerous chances, and rarely looked troubled defensively.

For Tunisia, new coach Herve Renard was unable to inspire an immediate turnaround after taking over following the dismissal of Sabri Lamouchi. The North Africans showed moments of determination but were ultimately outclassed by a technically superior opponent.

Tunisia Player Ratings

Goalkeeper

Aymen Dahmen – 5.3

A difficult evening for the goalkeeper. Conceded four goals and had little protection from the defence in front of him.

Defence

Dylan Bronn – 6.1

Worked hard but struggled to contain Japan’s fluid attack before being substituted at halftime.

Montassar Talbi – 5.8

A rare off-night from the centre-back as Japan repeatedly found space in dangerous areas.

Omar Rekik – 5.9

Battled throughout but found Japan’s movement difficult to contain.

Yan Valery – 6.4

One of Tunisia’s brighter defenders and tried to provide support going forward.

Ali Abdi – 6.4

Showed energy down the flank but was often forced into defensive duties.

Midfield

Anis Ben Slimane – 6.7

Tunisia’s highest-rated starter. Worked tirelessly and attempted to drive the team forward whenever possible.

Ellyes Skhiri – 6.0

Could not impose himself on the midfield battle against Japan’s energetic unit.

Hannibal Mejbri – 6.8

One of the few Tunisian players who consistently looked capable of creating something positive.

Attack

Elias Saad – 6.3

Showed flashes of quality but received little service before being replaced.

Sebastian Tounekti – 6.3

Worked hard in a difficult role up front and was isolated for much of the match.

Substitutes

Firas Chaouat – 6.5

Made a positive impact after coming on and provided additional energy in attack.

Ismael Gharbi – 6.3

Tried to bring creativity to the midfield but struggled to influence the game.

Amine Ben Hmida – 6.2

A steady contribution after entering at halftime.

Elias Achouri – N/A

Introduced too late to make a significant impact.

Rani Khedira – N/A

Entered in stoppage time and was not rated.

Verdict

Hannibal Mejbri and Anis Ben Slimane emerged with some credit from another difficult evening, but Tunisia were comprehensively outplayed. Japan’s quality proved overwhelming, while the Eagles of Carthage were left to reflect on a disappointing campaign that has produced nine goals conceded in just two matches.