Japan defeats Tunisia in 2026 World Cup match

*Cape Verde hold Uruguay in a four‑goal thriller, aim for Round of 32

Duro Ikhazuagbe

Japan’s 4‑0 victory over Tunisia yesterday secured the Carthage Eagles’ place as the first African team to exit the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America.

Tunisia had lost their opening match 5‑1 to Sweden and subsequently sacked Head Coach Sabri Lamouchi. Hervé Renard was appointed to lead the squad for the remainder of the tournament.

In Group F, the Netherlands and Japan already have four points each from two matches, while Sweden sits on three points. Tunisia’s chances of finishing among the eight best third‑placed teams appear closed. Haiti and Turkey are the other two teams that have been eliminated after two rounds of matches.

The Tunisia‑Japan match also marked the 1,000th game in FIFA World Cup finals history since the competition began in 1930.

Tunisia entered the match under heavy pressure. Daichi Kamada gave Japan the lead after just four minutes, setting the tone for a dominant performance. Japan continued to trouble the Tunisian defence with pace and movement, and Ayase Ueda doubled the advantage in the 31st minute, leaving the Samurai Blue with a comfortable 2‑0 lead at half‑time.

As Tunisia pushed forward in search of a comeback, gaps opened at the back. Junya Ito capitalised in the 69th minute to make it 3‑0, and Ueda completed his brace seven minutes from time, sealing an emphatic victory for Japan.

With no points from their opening two matches, the Carthage Eagles are now mathematically eliminated from the competition.

Their final Group F fixture against the Netherlands will offer only an opportunity to restore some pride and avoid leaving the tournament without a point.

Elsewhere last night, Cape Verde drew 2‑2 with Uruguay to stay in the hunt for a ticket to the Round of 32.

The Blue Sharks opened their campaign with a goalless draw against European champions Spain before drawing again with former two‑time World Cup winners Uruguay.

RESULTS

Sunday, June 21

Group H: Spain 4‑0 Saudi Arabia

Group G: Belgium 0‑0 Iran

Group H: Uruguay 2‑2 Cape Verde

Group G: New Zealand vs. Egypt

TODAY

(Monday, June 22)

Group J: Argentina vs. Austria (Texas)

Group I: France vs. Iraq (Philadelphia)

Group I: Norway vs. Senegal (New Jersey)

Group J: Jordan vs. Algeria (Santa Clara, Calif.)