The Tunisian Football Federation (FTF) has officially parted ways with national team head coach Faouzi Benzarti following a series of disappointing results, marking a abrupt end to his tenure during the ongoing 2026 World Cup qualification cycle. This leadership change, announced on October 22, 2024, places Benzarti among a select group of managers who have seen their contracts terminated while in the midst of a competitive international campaign.
The decision comes after the Carthage Eagles managed only two points from their most recent four matches in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying group, according to official Confederation of African Football (CAF) records. The federation confirmed the mutual agreement to terminate the contract, effectively ending Benzarti’s fourth stint in charge of the national side. His departure underscores the intense pressure surrounding international football management, where the window for success is often measured in a handful of high-stakes fixtures.
The Context of the Coaching Departure
Faouzi Benzarti, a veteran tactician in African football, was reappointed to lead the Tunisian national team in July 2024. His primary objective was to navigate the team through the qualification stages for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and ensure progress toward the 2026 FIFA World Cup. However, the team’s recent form—highlighted by a lack of offensive output—led to mounting criticism from fans and local media.
The Tunisian Football Federation (FTF) statement noted that the decision was reached to “preserve the interests of the national team” as they prepare for upcoming international windows. The federation is currently operating under a normalization committee, which has been tasked with restructuring the governing body’s administration. This management shift is expected to influence the search for a permanent successor, as the federation aims to stabilize the squad’s performance before the next crucial qualifying matches.
Coaching Stability in International Football
Benzarti’s mid-cycle exit highlights the volatility of international management, a trend often seen when teams fail to meet performance benchmarks during qualification windows. While “being fired during a World Cup” cycle refers to the extended qualification phase rather than the tournament itself, the pressure remains consistent with the stakes of global competition.
Data regarding coaching tenures in the CAF region shows that short-term contracts are increasingly common when results stall. The following table highlights the recent trajectory of Tunisia’s managerial path:
| Role | Status | Key Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Head Coach | Vacant | AFCON/World Cup Qualifying |
| Governing Body | Normalization Committee | Administrative Reform |
| Current Goal | Qualification | Points Accumulation |
What Happens Next for the Carthage Eagles
The Tunisian Football Federation has not yet named a permanent replacement for Benzarti. In the immediate term, the federation is expected to appoint an interim staff to oversee training sessions and manage the squad for the upcoming November qualifiers. The primary challenge for any incoming coach will be to reorganize a team that has struggled to convert possession into goals during recent competitive outings.
For the national team, the path to the 2026 World Cup remains open, provided they can secure consistent results in the remaining group matches. Supporters and stakeholders are now waiting for the federation’s announcement regarding the new coaching staff, which is expected to be finalized before the next international break. This transition period is critical for a team looking to restore confidence among its fan base and re-establish its status as a top-tier contender in African football.
Do you believe a change in leadership will improve Tunisia’s chances of qualifying for the next major tournament? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.
Disclaimer: This article provides information based on public reports and official federation statements. It does not constitute professional sports management or career advice.
