Belgium delivered a commanding 5-0 victory over Tunisia in Brussels, exposing significant defensive frailties just days before the 2026 World Cup. Goals from Leandro Trossard, Charles De Ketelaere, Kevin De Bruyne, Dodi Lukebakio and Nicolas Raskin – the last two coming after Tunisia had been reduced to ten men – underscored the gulf between the sides. The dismissal of Ismael Gharbi on 62 minutes compounded a miserable evening for the North Africans, who now head to North America with wounded pride and tactical uncertainty.

The final whistle was met not with dejection alone but with audible fury from the several thousand Tunisian supporters who had travelled to the King Baudouin Stadium. As players approached the stands to offer apologies, they were greeted by a chorus of whistles and hostile chants – a visceral expression of disappointment from a fanbase that has seen its team fail to advance beyond the group stage in any of their five previous World Cup appearances. The incident, captured widely on social media, highlighted the immense pressure on coach and squad alike.

Viewed from Stockholm, the result offered a measure of reassurance: Sweden, who face Tunisia in both sides’ opening Group 6 fixture on 15 June, will have noted the ease with which Belgium dismantled their future opponent. Yet Swedish analysts caution that Tunisia, despite this capitulation, remain a physically robust side capable of upsetting more heralded names – also in the group are the Netherlands and Japan. For Belgian observers, however, the match was an exhibition of fluid attacking football that bodes well for their own campaign in Group 7, where Egypt, New Zealand and Iran await.

Belgium’s performance was all the more impressive given the limited involvement of Romelu Lukaku, who played only the final 25 minutes but still provided an assist, marking only his second appearance for the national team in a year. The return to fitness of the veteran striker adds depth to a squad already brimming with creative talent, including Jérémy Doku, whose direct running tormented the Tunisian backline throughout the first half. Meanwhile, Tunisian introspection will centre on how to shore up a defence that conceded five times and managed just two shots on target.

With the World Cup now only days away, Tunisia confront the sobering reality that their last pre-tournament test has generated more questions than answers. The heavy defeat, the disciplinary lapse, and the public rupture with supporters combine to create an atmosphere of crisis. If they are to avoid another group-stage exit, a swift psychological reset is essential. Sweden, well-organised and buoyed by home support in the opener, will be unforgiving opponents.