Group F of the 2026 World Cup features the Netherlands, Sweden, Japan, and Tunisia.In the opening round, Sweden comfortably defeated Tunisia 5-1. However, the biggest surprise came in the Netherlands vs Japan match. Despite being considered underdogs, Japan produced an outstanding performance to earn a 2-2 draw against the Dutch giants.
For the second group-stage match, Japan face Tunisia, and based on current form, it would not be surprising to see the Asian side secure all three points, potentially by a comfortable margin.
Tunisia are currently in turmoil following the heavy defeat to Sweden. The national federation reacted immediately by dismissing head coach Sabri Lamouchi after just one match of the tournament.
Meanwhile, Japan enter the contest full of confidence. Their task appears relatively straightforward against a struggling Tunisian side.
History also favors the Samurai Blue. In the last five meetings between the two nations, Japan have won four times. One notable victory came during the 2002 FIFA World Cup, when Japan defeated Tunisia by a two-goal margin on home soil.
Recent Form & Head-to-Head
Tunisia
- Lost 1-5 to Sweden in their World Cup opener.
- Defensive problems continue, conceding heavily in recent matches.
- Entering the game under a newly appointed coaching staff.
Japan
- Drew 2-2 with the Netherlands.
- Unbeaten run remains intact.
- Showing strong attacking efficiency against top-level opponents.
Team News
Tunisia
- Moutaz Neffati remains doubtful.
Japan
- Wataru Endo is unavailable due to injury.
Predicted Lineups
Tunisia
Dahmen; Talbi, Rekik, Meriah, Abdi; Achouri, Skhiri, Mejbri, Gharbi; Ben Slimane, Msakni.
Japan
Suzuki; Yamane, Itakura, Taniguchi, Mitoma; Tanaka, Sano; Kubo, Kamada, Doan; Ueda.
Betting Analysis
Asian Handicap: Japan -1
Tunisia have failed to cover the Asian handicap in each of their last two matches.
Japan, meanwhile, have covered the handicap in six of their last seven games.
Additionally, Japan have won four of the last five meetings against Tunisia, with all four victories coming by margins of at least two goals.
Pick: Japan -1
Over/Under: Over 2.25 Goals
Tunisia’s defense has been extremely vulnerable, conceding 10 goals across their last two matches.
Japan scored twice against the Netherlands and possess enough attacking quality to exploit Tunisia’s defensive weaknesses.
Three of the last five meetings between these teams have produced at least three goals.
Pick: Over 2.25 Goals
Cards Market
Tunisia average 1.8 cards per match.
Japan’s last four matches have all finished with no more than three total cards.
The previous two meetings between the teams also produced a maximum of three cards each.
Pick: Under 3.5 Total Cards
Expert Prediction
Recommended Bets
- Japan to win the Asian Handicap (-1)
- Over 2.25 Goals
- Under 3.5 Total Cards
Correct Score Prediction
Tunisia 1-3 Japan 🇯🇵⚽