Tunisia upset France but fail to qualify for round of 16

French-born Wahbi Khazri scored the only goal of the game as Tunisia claimed a famous 1-0 win over holders France at the World Cup on Wednesday, but it was not enough to put them into the last-16.

Didier Deschamps made nine changes with Les Blues already through to the knockout rounds and the team lacked cohesion and rhythm.

Tunisia were the better team and had a goal disallowed in the first half when Nader Ghandri flicked in from a free-kick.

But they did get one that counted in the second half, Wahbi Khazri was allowed to charge into the box unchallenged and he finished calmly to spark mass celebrations.

France brought on the likes of Kylian Mbappe and Antonie Griezmann off the bench to save the day but they could not change a disjointed performance.

The Atletico striker did score but after a lengthy VAR check in the last minute the goal did not stand.

Tunisia, despite victory, do not go through as Australia beat Denmark as they hoped for a draw. The Aussies progress with France, both on six points.

France put out what was essentially a B team with top spot all but secured in the first two games. With the number of injuries the French have, it was no surprise the manager wanted to wrap certain players in cotton wool, but the reserves did not step up and take their big chance.

Tunisia worked their socks off and pressed relentlessly playing with desire and passion. France struggled to deal with their hunger and the midfield could not cope with the press.

France’s rivals will be aware of that poor performance, a loos like that can knock momentum and Deschamps will demand a reaction. He put on the stars like Mbappe and the team did improve but any more injuries and France look ordinary.

Aissa Laidouni, player of the match, was energetic in midfield, him and Ellyes Skhiri were excellent sustaining the press and having the quality to break down France. They were combative and bullied their opponents at time. Laidouni was the stand out performer grabbing the assist for the goal and showing his talent with a number of tricks. He nutmegged Eduardo Camavinga with skills that made him look embarrassed._Agencies