Tunisia's FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign is over before the final whistle of Group F has blown, but that does not mean this match against the Netherlands is without stakes. Ronald Koeman's side are chasing top spot in the group — a prize that would keep them away from other group winners until the quarter-finals.

The Dutch have been ruthless in attack so far, netting seven times across their opening two matches. Crysencio Summerville, Brian Brobbey, and Cody Gakpo have each found the net twice in the tournament, underlining just how dangerous this Netherlands side can be.

Tunisia's difficult route to this point

Tunisia arrive at this fixture having conceded nine goals and scored just one in two Group F defeats. The Tunisian Football Federation also changed managers mid-tournament, dismissing Sabri Lamouchi and turning to Hervé Renard — yet the results did not improve.

A telling statistic ties the group together: Tunisia lost 5-1 to Sweden, and Sweden then suffered an identical 5-1 defeat at the hands of the Netherlands. That chain of results says much about the respective levels of these three sides.

Historically, Tunisia have never beaten the Netherlands in three meetings. A 1970s loss was followed by friendly draws in 1994 and 2009, meaning a first win for the Eagles of Carthage remains elusive.

What the Netherlands need

For the Netherlands, finishing first in Group F would mean avoiding other group winners until the last eight — a considerable advantage heading into the knockout rounds. Koeman will be determined not to let his team settle for second place when the incentive to press on is this clear.

Should Japan or Sweden leapfrog the Netherlands in the final standings, Koeman's side could face a sterner test as early as the round of 32.

With Tunisia already eliminated and the Dutch in commanding form, another high-scoring Netherlands performance looks the most likely outcome when these two sides meet in Group F.