Mejbri: Tunisia fears no one at World Cup

Hannibal Mejbri, a 23-year-old midfielder for Tunisia, has declared that the team "does not fear anyone" ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Despite being drawn in a challenging Group F against higher-ranked Sweden, Japan, and the Netherlands, Mejbri's fearless attitude is shaped by his upbringing in Paris. He explained that his childhood in a working-class neighborhood taught him the importance of respect and self-assurance.

Mejbri's journey began with street football in Paris before joining youth academies, eventually leading him to Manchester United. After loan spells, he signed permanently with Burnley in August 2024. His combative style, noted for earning 10 yellow cards last season, is also evident in his outspokenness about Tunisian football. Following their exit from the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, Mejbri called for a complete overhaul of the game in Tunisia, citing a lack of progress compared to other African nations.

Tunisia, ranked 45th globally, will open their World Cup campaign against Sweden on June 14. Mejbri, who previously represented France at youth levels, committed to Tunisia in 2021. The team's last World Cup appearance in 2022 saw a surprising victory against France but ultimately a group-stage exit. For the upcoming tournament, Mejbri is expected to provide creativity and a fighting spirit from his No. 10 role, aiming to help Tunisia achieve their first-ever World Cup group stage qualification.