Sweden v Tunisia – predictions and odds – 2026 World Cup (15 June 2026)

Group F kicks off with a clash that could largely determine the fate of both teams in this 2026 World Cup. The Netherlands are favourites to top the group, so Sweden and Tunisia know this opening match is crucial and a win here could be the difference between progressing or being eliminated.

Furthermore, the two sides bring very different styles to the table. Sweden boast one of their most potent attacking line-ups in recent years (featuring Gyokeres and Isak), whilst Tunisia, as has been the case before, look set to be a real source of entertainment in the tournament. I expect a closer contest than anticipated.

Sweden

Sweden returns to the World Cup after missing out on Qatar 2022. They do so following a rather unusual qualification campaign: they were among the worst-performing teams in the qualifying phase and had to reach the play-offs thanks to their Nations League ranking. Once there, they showed a much more competitive side, eliminating Ukraine and subsequently Poland to secure their World Cup spot.

The most striking aspect of this team is clearly its attack. Graham Potter has a front three capable of causing damage to anyone: Viktor Gyökeres, one of the most fearsome strikers in European football, Alexander Isak and Anthony Elanga.

I also think it’s important to highlight the development of Lucas Bergvall. Although he is still young, he has the ability to accelerate the play between the lines and could be key against a packed defence. At the back, Victor Lindelöf remains the leader of a unit that blends experience and youth.

Sweden’s main concern lies at the back. During qualifying, they conceded more goals than a side of this calibre should have and struggled when opponents managed to break through their first line of pressure. Against Tunisia, they should have more possession and create better chances, but I don’t expect them to dominate as comfortably as the line-up might suggest.

Tunisia

Tunisia are making their sixth World Cup appearance and once again look set to be one of the most competitive teams on the African continent. They may not have the individual talent that other sides like Morocco or Senegal possess, but they promise to be a difficult team to play against.

The heart of the team continues to revolve around Ellyes Skhiri. The central midfielder is the player who provides balance, wins back possession and underpins much of the team’s structure. Around him are players capable of creating breakthroughs, such as Hannibal Mejbri, arguably the Tunisian player with the most individual talent in the current squad.

One of Tunisia’s long-standing characteristics in major tournaments is their ability to stay in games even when they are outplayed. They tend to concede few chances, hold on to the result and wear down their opponents.

However, I also see obvious limitations. Tunisia do not create as many chances as other teams and rely much more on counter-attacks and set-pieces. Against a Swedish defence that does not inspire absolute confidence, they may find an opportunity, but it is unlikely to come from aerial play.