K. Ayari

Tunisia arrive at the 2026 World Cup as familiar faces on the global stage but firmly among the tournament's outsiders. Our AI model reflects that reality starkly: a 0.0% chance of lifting the trophy, just 0.6% to reach the semi-finals and a slim 0.1% to make the final. The Carthage Eagles will look to be organized and competitive rather than ambitious, building from a disciplined collective rather than individual stardust. Recent headlines have centered on off-pitch matters, including the launch of new Kappa kits and the commitment of players opting to join up with the national team even amid relegation battles at their clubs.

The squad leans on midfield energy and reliability. Elias Achouri of FC Copenhagen is the standout creative outlet, contributing three goals and four assists at a 6.9 rating, the best in the group. Anis Ben Slimane brings goals from midfield at Norwich with five strikes and two assists, while Rani Khedira anchors things at Union Berlin (5G, 1A). Montassar Ben Ouanes adds a creative dimension at Kasımpaşa with six assists. The notable subplot is one player leaving Nice's relegation fight to report for international duty, a sign of commitment but also of squad members under club pressure.

Drawn into Group F, Tunisia's realistic aim is to be competitive and perhaps sneak through as a best third-placed side. The numbers suggest a group-stage exit is the likely outcome, with any knockout appearance counting as a genuine achievement.