Sweden takes on Tunisia in World Cup Group F opener in Monterrey

Group F opener

Sweden and Tunisia launch their 2026 World Cup campaigns tonight (June 14) at Estadio BBVA in Monterrey, Mexico. The match kicks off at 10 p.m. Eastern Time (4 a.m. CET on June 15). The game is the first of Group F, which also features the Netherlands and Japan. Both sides see a positive start as crucial to their hopes of reaching the knockout stage.

How they got here

Sweden reached the tournament via the European playoffs after failing to win their qualifying group. They beat Ukraine 3–1 and Poland 3–2 to secure a spot. Their recent preparation has been mixed, with a 3–1 defeat to Norway and a 2–2 draw with Greece. Tunisia, meanwhile, stormed through African qualifying without conceding a single goal, but suffered heavy friendly losses to Austria (1–0) and Belgium (5–0). Coach Sabri Lamouchi has overhauled the squad since the last Africa Cup of Nations, building a solid defensive block around midfielder Ellyes Skhiri.

Key players and predicted lineups

Sweden will rely on their attack led by Alexander Isak and Viktor Gyökeres. The Swedes are expected to line up with Nordfeldt in goal, a back three of Lindelöf, Starfelt, and Hien, and a midfield that includes Karlström and Ayari. For Tunisia, Khedira and Skhiri anchor the midfield in a 4-2-3-1 shape, while young talents like Mejbri and Achouri support striker Mastouri. Exact starting XIs may vary, with different sources naming alternative choices (such as Lagerbielke or Elanga for Sweden, Dahmen or Ben Hamida for Tunisia).

Head-to-head and betting odds

The two nations have met three times, every match finishing 1–0; Sweden holds a 2–1 edge. BetMGM lists Sweden as the favorite at −110 moneyline, with Tunisia at +333 and the draw at +240. The total goals line is set at 2.5, with the under priced at −140.

Broadcast and streaming

In the United States, Fox Sports 1 will televise the game, with Fubo offering a streaming option. Italian viewers can watch on DAZN, while French audiences will rely on beIN Sports 1. Coverage includes pre-match build-up and post-match analysis.

Group stage schedule

Sweden’s remaining group fixtures are against the Netherlands on June 20 in Houston and against Japan on June 26 in Dallas. Tunisia will face Japan on June 21 in Monterrey and the Netherlands on June 26 in Kansas City. The full Group F calendar is shown below.