Japan delivered a commanding performance to dismantle Tunisia 4-0 in a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying encounter, ending the Eagles of Carthage's hopes in the competition on the same evening Herve Renard took charge of the side for the very first time.

Ayase Ueda was the standout figure of the night, netting twice to power Japan to a dominant and comprehensive victory. The result leaves Tunisia without a path forward in the 2026 World Cup.

For Renard, the French coach renowned across African football for his work with Morocco and Zambia, there could hardly have been a harsher introduction to his new role. Tunisia were never in the contest, and the final scoreline told the full story of an evening to forget for the Carthage Eagles.

Japan, disciplined and clinical from the first whistle, controlled proceedings throughout and were rewarded with a result that reinforces their status among Asia's elite footballing nations. Ueda's brace formed the spine of the win, with further goals ensuring the scoreline reflected Japan's total dominance.

The elimination marks a painful chapter for Tunisian football. Renard, brought in to revive the Eagles of Carthage's fortunes, now faces the challenge of rebuilding a squad that was outclassed in his opening match. The scale of the defeat will demand swift answers from both coach and players as Tunisia looks ahead beyond the 2026 cycle.