Tunisia's Rocky Path to 2026: Can the Carthage Eagles Soar Again?

For Tunisia, the dream of a third consecutive World Cup appearance begins with the 2026 CAF qualifiers. The Carthage Eagles, who graced the global stage in both 2018 and 2022, have been placed in Group H—a mix of familiar foes and emerging sides that promise no easy ride. With the expanded 48-team tournament offering Africa nine direct slots plus a playoff chance, this is arguably the most accessible World Cup in history for the continent. But Tunisia knows all too well that reputation counts for little in African qualifying.

The Group Stage Challenge

Tunisia's Group H contains six nations: Equatorial Guinea, Namibia, Liberia, São Tomé and Príncipe, Malawi, and the Carthage Eagles themselves. On paper, Tunisia is the highest-ranked team and the clear favourite. Yet African qualifiers are notorious for upsets, especially on the road against motivated minnows. Equatorial Guinea, a side that has punched above its weight by reaching the Africa Cup of Nations quarter-finals in recent years, will be particularly dangerous. Namibia and Malawi are both physically strong and capable of snatching points at home. Liberia, led by the experienced players like William Jebor, cannot be overlooked either. São Tomé and Príncipe, the group's minnows, will likely be the whipping boys, but a tricky trip to the islands is never a holiday.

What It Takes to Qualify

Tunisia's squad boasts a blend of European-based talent and domestic grit. Key players such as Ellyes Skhiri (Eintracht Frankfurt), Aissa Laïdouni (Union Berlin), and the experienced centre-back Yassine Meriah provide a solid spine. Coach Jalel Kadri must navigate a nine-match group stage—four home, four away, plus a bye—knowing that only the group winner is guaranteed a ticket to the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The second-placed team enters a playoff against another African runner-up, with the winner then facing an intercontinental tie. Consistency will be vital: dropped points against lesser opponents can be fatal. Tunisia's defensive organization and set-piece prowess, hallmarks of their recent success, will be their biggest assets.

Implications and Outlook

For Tunisian football, missing out on the 2026 World Cup would be a major setback. The Carthage Eagles have built a reputation as Africa's most consistent qualifier, and a third straight appearance would cement their status as a rising power. It would also boost the domestic league's profile and inspire a new generation. However, complacency is the enemy. If Tunisia treats any match lightly, they could face a desperate scramble. The early fixtures will set the tone: a strong start can build momentum, while a shock defeat could create panic. The group's balance—with no other traditional African giant—means Tunisia should top it, but they must earn every point. Ultimately, this is their chance to make history in an expanded World Cup, and the journey starts now.