World Cup 2026: Tunisia vs Japan 20/06/2026

Japan drew with the Netherlands and need a win to improve their qualification chances, while Tunisia enter a must-win match after a 5-1 defeat against Sweden and the appointment of new coach Herve Renard. The game is expected to be hard-fought and physical, with the prediction focusing on a high number of cards under referee Istvan Kovacs.

Betting on Cards

This second-round clash finds Japan on one point after their draw with the Netherlands, while Tunisia have already sacked their coach following a disastrous performance and a 5-1 defeat against Sweden.

Tunisia will now move forward under Herve Renard (former Saudi Arabia coach), who has the difficult task of changing the atmosphere around the team after the disappointment of the opening match. The defensive issues were already visible during the friendly matches and once again proved costly in their World Cup opener. I expect a reaction from Tunisia, who are entering a must-win game. They should fight for every ball and may even resort to a more physical approach in an effort to restore some pride.

Japan were considered underdogs against the Netherlands but managed to earn a result thanks to their persistence and work ethic, two trademarks of this team. They need a victory here to boost their qualification chances, but they will have to battle hard for it. This match is unlikely to be as straightforward as it may appear.

Given the circumstances, the expected balance of the game and the appointment of strict Romanian referee Istvan Kovacs, I will take the risk on the cards. The line looks achievable and comes with excellent odds.