The Netherlands will attempt to seal top spot in Group F when they face Tunisia in their final 2026 World Cup match. Tunisia are already eliminated from the tournament following heavy defeats to Sweden and Japan, leaving them to play for pride under new manager Hervé Renard.
Tunisia’s chaotic campaign
Tunisia’s tournament has unravelled rapidly. They suffered a 5-1 demolition by Sweden in their opening match, a result that prompted the federation to dismiss manager Sabri Lamouchi. French coach Renard was appointed as his replacement, but his debut brought no respite as Japan inflicted a 4-0 defeat to leave Tunisia bottom of the group.
The North African side have thus conceded nine goals in two matches. This final fixture offers an opportunity to salvage some dignity before heading home, though they face a Dutch side high on confidence.
Netherlands discover attacking edge
Ronald Koeman’s side arrive in starkly different form. After an opening draw with Japan, the Dutch delivered a ruthless display against Sweden, scoring five goals without reply. Sunderland striker Brian Brobbey was instrumental in that victory, netting twice and establishing himself as the focal point of the attack.
The Oranje know victory will guarantee they finish first in the group and secure a more favourable path in the knockout stages.
Team news
Renard has turned to experienced Bundesliga figures to steady the ship. Eintracht Frankfurt midfielder Ellyes Skhiri will captain the side, while Union Berlin’s Rani Khedira and Augsburg’s Ismael Gharbi both start in the XI.
The Netherlands line-up features captain Virgil van Dijk in defence, with Brobbey leading the line supported by Cody Gakpo and Donyell Malen. Frenkie de Jong and Ryan Gravenberch provide creativity from midfield.
Tunisia XI: Dahmen; Ben Hamida, Talbi, Abdi, Valery; Skhiri, Khedira; Gharbi, Mejbri, Slimane; Mastouri
Netherlands XI: Verbruggen; Dumfries, Van Hecke, Van Dijk, Ake; Gravenberch, Reijnders, De Jong; Malen, Brobbey, Gakpo