World Cup 2026: Netherlands’ win over Tunisia strengthens their position in Group F

After two matches in a group that also includes Japan and Sweden, the Netherlands arrived with a positive record (one win, one draw), while Tunisia were still searching for their first point after two defeats. That context made this match crucial for Tunisia’s ambitions, while the Oranje were aiming to secure a place in the knockout stage.

The match got off to a flying start for the Dutch, with an early goal from Ellyes Skhiri in the 3rd minute, followed four minutes later by Brian Brobbey, set up by Virgil van Dijk. Those two very early goals put Tunisia in difficulty, despite a notable level of commitment on the pitch. The Netherlands maintained control of the game, holding 71% possession and creating repeated attacks through dynamic players such as Cody Gakpo and Donyell Malen.

In the second half, Tunisia managed to reduce the deficit through Hazem Mastouri, whose finish came after a fine pass from Hannibal Mejbri (54th). However, Jan Paul van Hecke added a third goal for the Netherlands (62nd), sealing the outcome of the match. The many changes made by both coaches altered the rhythm without changing the result.

Tactically, Hervé Renard had opted for a solid 5-3-2, with a compact defensive block and an attempt to counter through his forwards Hazem Mastouri and Anis Ben Slimane. Opposite him, Ronald Koeman lined up a balanced 4-3-3, combining a solid defence led by Virgil van Dijk and a technical midfield with Frenkie de Jong and Ryan Gravenberch. The Dutch collective superiority was reflected on the pitch and on the scoreboard.

Tunisia face a tactical challenge at the heart of the 5-3-2 system

The Tunisian national team deployed a 5-3-2 formation, favouring a five-man defence to contain the Dutch attack. Goalkeeper Aymen Dahmen was active, making several important saves despite the scoreline. In defence, Moez Ben Hmida and Mohamed Talbi tried to contain Gakpo and Brobbey. In midfield, Ellyes Skhiri and Hannibal Mejbri were essential in linking the attacking play, joined by Rani Khedira, who came on in the second half to strengthen the middle of the pitch.

In attack, the partnership of Hazem Mastouri and Anis Ben Slimane tried to create danger, with the latter coming on to replace Elias Achouri. Despite a well-taken goal to reduce the deficit, the Tunisians were unable to turn the match around against a more cohesive and precise Netherlands side.

The Netherlands reinforce their status with a dynamic 4-3-3 setup

Ronald Koeman relied on a classic 4-3-3 formation with a solid defensive base embodied by Virgil van Dijk and Nathan Aké. Up front, the movement of Brian Brobbey, who scored, and the creativity of Cody Gakpo proved decisive. The midfield, orchestrated by Frenkie de Jong and Ryan Gravenberch, dictated the tempo and produced repeated incursions.

Jan Paul van Hecke, also on the scoresheet, made an important contribution in defence and then from a set piece. Goalkeeper Benjamin Verbruggen was flawless despite Tunisia’s attempts. This victory confirms the Netherlands’ ability to control their matches in this competitive Group F.

Tunisia

Finished 1-3 Arrowhead Stadium

Netherlands

26/06/2026 00:00 Group F

Fil du match

3'But - Ellyes SkhiriPays-Bas, 3e
7'But - Brian Brobbey (passe Virgil van Dijk)Pays-Bas, 7e
54'But - Hazem Mastouri (passe Hannibal Mejbri)Tunisie, 54e
62'But - Jan Paul van Hecke (passe Tijjani Reijnders)Pays-Bas, 62e
67'Remplacement - Rani Khedira (remplace Mohamed Hadj Mahmoud)Tunisie, 67e
68'Remplacement - Anis Ben Slimane (remplace Elias Achouri)Tunisie, 68e
68'Remplacement - Mohamed Amine Ben Hamida (remplace Mortadha Ben Ouanes)Tunisie, 68e
72'Remplacement - Frenkie de Jong (remplace Teun Koopmeiners)Pays-Bas, 72e
72'Remplacement - Tijjani Reijnders (remplace Justin Kluivert)Pays-Bas, 72e
72'Remplacement - Donyell Malen (remplace Crysencio Summerville)Pays-Bas, 72e
75'Remplacement - Ismael Gharbi (remplace Firas Chaouat)Tunisie, 75e
77'Remplacement - Brian Brobbey (remplace Memphis Depay)Pays-Bas, 77e
84'Remplacement - Cody Gakpo (remplace Noa Lang)Pays-Bas, 84e
90'Remplacement - Hazem Mastouri (remplace Sebastian Tounekti)Tunisie, 90e