- Sweden have won two, drawn two and lost one of their last five games, beating Poland 3-2 at home in a World Cup qualifier
- Tunisia have won one, drawn one and lost three of their last five fixtures, currently on a two-game losing streak
Sweden to squeeze out Tunisia in tactical clash
Graham Potter's Sweden have a more organised and adaptable approach to playing possession-based football than they did before he took charge in October 2025. The Three Crowns can play in a patient, controlled style, stretching opponents wide and deep with their movement and shape, but can also be more direct when the occasion requires it.
Alexander Isak provides the pace and trickery to unlock compact, defensive units while Emil Forsberg remains the spark that can light up games and generate chance quality from set-pieces. Viktor Gyoekeres has scored five goals in his last five appearances for Sweden and should get the nod up front for this Group F opener as their main clinical touch.
Potter's tactical flexibility will be crucial in Monday's game against a Tunisia side that have been as well drilled as any African side in recent years. Sabri Lamouchi has instilled a discipline and compactness since taking charge in January 2026 and always ensures his side are well-organised, whether in a low or medium block.
Both sides have goal-getters
Hannibal Mejbri brings energy and a knack for breaking up play to the centre of Tunisia's midfield, which will be vital against Sweden's build-up. Youssef Msakni is the playmaker that can trigger counter attacks and make things happen from deep, while Mohamed Ali Ben Romdhane provides box-to-box drive and is a set-piece threat.
Sweden are the more likely winner of this fixture and are at odds of 1.85, but both sides have a bit of quality in the final third that could make the difference on Monday. Under 2.5 goals is 1.66, which seems very high for a game in which it will be decided by whichever side can impose their identity on the game at Monterrey Stadium.
Both teams to score looks a sure bet at 2.02, although it is likely to be a cagey contest with few goals. Our belief is that Sweden's superior players and structure will eventually wear down Tunisia and Potter's men should squeeze out a victory.
