2026 World Cup: Sweden Crush Tunisia 5–1 in Group F Opener

Sweden delivered a commanding performance to begin their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign, sweeping aside Tunisia 5–1 in a one-sided Group F encounter at Monterrey Stadium in Mexico.

Graham Potter’s side took full advantage of a series of defensive mistakes from the North African team, showcasing clinical finishing and tactical discipline throughout the match.

The breakthrough came as early as the seventh minute when Tunisia goalkeeper Mouhib Chamakh misjudged a long ball from Victor Lindelöf. Although Viktor Gyökeres’ initial effort was blocked, Yasin Ayari reacted quickest, smashing a powerful long-range strike into an empty net. The midfielder, who has Tunisian roots, opted not to celebrate out of respect.

Sweden doubled their lead shortly after as Gyökeres turned provider, setting up Alexander Isak who calmly finished a swift counterattack to make it 2–0.

Tunisia managed to respond just before halftime, offering brief hope when Omar Rekik rose highest to head in a well-delivered cross from Hannibal Mejbri, reducing the deficit to 2–1 and energising their supporters.

However, any expectation of a second-half comeback was quickly extinguished after the restart. Sweden stepped up their intensity, pressing high and exploiting gaps in Tunisia’s defence.

The Scandinavian side continued to dominate possession and created multiple chances, eventually extending their lead with further goals that exposed Tunisia’s lack of organisation at the back.

Sweden’s attacking trio combined effectively, with Isak and Gyökeres central to most of their forward play, while the midfield controlled the tempo and prevented Tunisia from building any sustained pressure.

The result sees Sweden move to the top of Group F with an impressive goal difference, while Tunisia are left with significant defensive concerns to address ahead of their next fixture.

Potter’s men will now look to build on their strong start as they aim to progress deep into the tournament, while Tunisia face an uphill battle to revive their World Cup hopes.