Preview: Tunisia vs Netherlands – Latest News, Lineups, Absences | 2026 World Cup (06/26/2026)
Preview, Team News, Head-to-Head and Probable Line-ups for Tunisia vs Netherlands at the 2026 FIFA World Cup
The Netherlands head into their final Group F fixture against Tunisia in a commanding position, while the Eagles of Carthage have been a eliminated from the World Cup with one game to spare.
Ronald Koeman’s side followed their entertaining 2-2 draw against Japan with one of the standout performances of the tournament, defeating Sweden 5-1 to move onto four points. That result leaves the Dutch well placed to potentially finish top of the group.
Tunisia, meanwhile, have endured a difficult tournament. A 5-1 defeat to Sweden was followed by a 4-0 loss against Japan, leaving them rooted to the bottom of the standings with no points and a goal difference of minus eight.
Latest news: absences, form, team news
The Netherlands looked far more fluid against Sweden than they did in their opening match against Japan. Koeman’s side pressed aggressively, moved the ball quickly and consistently found space in dangerous attacking areas.
The result also highlighted the depth available to the Dutch manager. Different players stepped up throughout the match, underlining why many observers view the Netherlands as one of the dark horses of the tournament.
Tunisia’s problems have been at both ends of the pitch. They have conceded nine goals in two matches and struggled to create enough sustained pressure in the final third. Defensive mistakes have been punished ruthlessly, while opportunities at the other end have been limited.
Tunisia
Tunisia are expected to make adjustments after two heavy defeats. Sami Trabelsi may look to add more energy in midfield and greater defensive protection as his side attempt to avoid another difficult evening.
Netherlands
The Dutch have little reason to make major changes after their emphatic victory over Sweden. Frenkie de Jong continues to dictate play from midfield, while Cody Gakpo has become increasingly influential in advanced areas. Koeman may rotate one or two positions with top spot within reach, but the core of the team is expected to remain unchanged. Brian Brobbey returned to full team training on Monday amid concern about a hamstring issue.
Tunisia vs Netherlands H2H: Head-to-head stats
Tunisia and the Netherlands have met only once previously at senior international level. Thursday’s fixture will therefore be the first competitive encounter between the two sides.
Previous meetings:
- 11/02/2009: Tunisia 1-1 Netherlands (International friendly)
Predicted line-ups
Tunisia may look to freshen up the side after conceding nine goals across their opening two matches. The Netherlands are expected to remain close to the team that dismantled Sweden, although Koeman could make one or two changes with qualification almost secured.
| Position |  –Tunisia |  –Netherlands |
|---|---|---|
| Goalkeeper | Aymen Dahmen | Bart Verbruggen |
| Defenders |
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| Midfielders |
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| Forwards |
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Tactical analysis: Can Tunisia avoid another difficult night?
Tunisia’s first objective must be improving their defensive structure. Sweden and Japan both found space too easily between the lines and exposed weaknesses whenever Tunisia lost possession in dangerous areas.
The Netherlands are likely to dominate the ball and attempt to stretch the pitch through Dumfries and Summerville. De Jong and Reijnders should have the freedom to dictate possession, while Gakpo will look to exploit gaps between Tunisia’s midfield and defence.
Tunisia’s best opportunities are likely to come on the counter-attack. Hannibal’s ability to drive forward with the ball offer potential outlets if the Dutch commit numbers forward.
Key players to watch
Ellyes Skhiri (Tunisia)
Skhiri remains Tunisia’s most important midfielder and will have a huge responsibility against the Dutch. He will be tasked with protecting the defence, disrupting attacks and helping Tunisia establish some control in possession. The Eagles of Carthage have spent large periods defending during the tournament and that is likely to be the case again. Skhiri is likely to be involved in numerous defensive duels as Tunisia attempt to contain the Dutch midfield. A booking could be an interesting angle given the amount of pressure his side are expected to face.
Cody Gakpo (Netherlands)
Gakpo has consistently delivered for the Netherlands at major tournaments and remains one of Ronald Koeman’s most reliable attacking players. Comfortable cutting inside from the left or arriving in central goalscoring positions, the Liverpool forward combines intelligent movement with a clinical finish. Tunisia have struggled throughout the tournament against players capable of running directly at defenders and finding space between the lines. With the Dutch looking to secure top spot in the group, expect Gakpo, who recorded two goals and an assist against Sweden, to play a prominent role in their attacking play and receive plenty of opportunities around the penalty area. An anytime goalscorer selection stands out here, while backing him to score first could offer significantly greater value if the Netherlands make a fast start.
Market insights and probability predictions
The Netherlands are overwhelming favourites heading into the final group match. Current markets and odds for the 2026 World Cup imply approximately a 75% to 80% chance of a Dutch victory, while Tunisia are considered significant outsiders. The goals market strongly favours over 2.5 goals after Tunisia conceded nine times in their opening two matches.
Tunisia need to attack, but doing so could play directly into the Netherlands’ strengths. Koeman’s side look increasingly confident, possess quality throughout the squad and should have too much firepower for an already-eliminated opponent.
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