The World Cup claims first casualty as Alexander Isak and Viktor Gyokeres shine for Sweden

Last Updated on 15 June 2026

The World Cup 2026 has delivered its first managerial sacking, and it took just one match.

Sabri Lamouchi is reportedly out as Tunisia head coach after his side suffered a brutal 5-1 thrashing at the hands of Sweden on Sunday.

Consequently, the Eagles of Carthage head into their remaining group fixtures without a manager, on the brink of going out of the World Cup, as predicted, and searching for answers.

Sabri Lamouchi falls on his sword after Sweden thrash Tunisia

Sabri Lamouchi had only taken charge in January 2026, stepping in after Sami Trabelsi’s exit following Tunisia’s AFCON last-16 defeat to Mali. Yet his tenure lasted barely five months before Sunday’s nightmare brought it to a reportedly abrupt end, per Romain Molina.

From the outset, things went wrong. Sweden moved the ball with purpose, and Tunisia’s defensive structure simply buckled under the pressure. Goalkeeper Abdelmouhib Chamakh, a surprise selection, struggled badly, contributing to the opening goal and failing to inspire confidence at any point.

Tunisia briefly steadied themselves before half-time, with Omar Rekik pulling one back to make it 2-1. However, that moment of hope was short-lived. After the restart, Sweden reasserted control quickly and efficiently.

Then, just to rub salt into the wounds, substitute Mattias Svanberg scored with his very first touch, just 12 seconds after coming on. By full-time, the scoreline told a damning story: 5-1, and frankly it flattered Tunisia.

The Tunisian federation acted swiftly thereafter, confirming Lamouchi’s dismissal within hours of the final whistle. He becomes the first manager axed at this World Cup: a grim distinction.

Viktor Gyokeres and Alexander Isak announce themselves on the biggest stage

While Tunisia imploded, two Premier League strikers seized the spotlight in spectacular fashion. Viktor Gyokeres of Arsenal and Liverpool’s Alexander Isak combined to devastating effect throughout, confirming they are among the most dangerous forwards in world football.

Isak, in particular, was electric. He finished with a goal and two assists, consistently finding space in behind Tunisia’s defensive line and threading passes that routinely unlocked the backline. Notably, his quick thinking after winning the ball led directly to Gyokeres’ goal at 3-1.

Gyokeres, meanwhile, was relentless. His powerful running and intelligent movement gave Tunisia no rest, and his calm finish wrapped up a thoroughly dominant personal display. Together, they put the questions about their international chemistry firmly to rest.

Sweden top Group F with three points as a result, sitting above Japan and the Netherlands, who drew 2-2, heading into Matchday 2. Moreover, the performance served as a statement of intent to the rest of the tournament.