Tounekti delivers Haiti blow in World Cup warm-up

Celtic winger's goal sinks Haiti in Toronto friendly

Mar. 29, 2026 at 10:49am

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Celtic winger Sebastian Tounekti scored the only goal as Tunisia defeated Haiti 1-0 in a World Cup warm-up match in Toronto. Tounekti slotted home from the edge of the box in the 7th minute after a defense-splitting pass from Ismaël Gharbi. Haiti had chances to equalize but were denied by Tunisia goalkeeper Sabri Ben Hessen, while Philadelphia Union midfielder Danley Jean Jacques was sent off late on for a second yellow card.

Why it matters

This result is a setback for Haiti as they continue their preparations for their World Cup opener against Scotland. Tunisia, on the other hand, will be encouraged by the win as they build towards their own World Cup campaign.

The details

Tounekti's goal came in the 7th minute after a fine pass from Ismaël Gharbi split the Haiti defense. The Celtic winger had a chance to double the lead seven minutes later but fired over from 15 yards. Haiti's best chance fell to Danley Jean Jacques, but his effort from close range was blocked. Sayfallah Ltaief and Hazem Nazon both went close for Tunisia in the second half, while Jean Jacques was sent off late on for Haiti.

  • The match was played on March 29, 2026 in Toronto.
  • Tounekti scored the winning goal in the 7th minute.
  • Jean Jacques was sent off in the 93rd minute.

The players

Sebastian Tounekti

A 23-year-old Celtic winger who scored the winning goal for Tunisia.

Ismaël Gharbi

A midfielder on loan to Augsburg from Braga who provided the assist for Tounekti's goal.

Alexandre Pierre

The Haiti goalkeeper who was beaten by Tounekti's goal.

Danley Jean Jacques

A Philadelphia Union midfielder who was sent off late in the game for Haiti.

Sabri Ben Hessen

The Tunisia goalkeeper who made some key saves to preserve the win.

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What they’re saying

“We're disappointed with the result, but we'll learn from this experience and come back stronger for the World Cup.”

— Sebastien Migne, Haiti Head Coach

What’s next

Haiti's next World Cup warm-up match is against Iceland on April 1, 2026 in Toronto, while Tunisia will face hosts Canada on the same date.

The takeaway

This defeat is a setback for Haiti's World Cup preparations, but they will have the chance to bounce back in their next friendly against Iceland. Tunisia, meanwhile, will be pleased with the win as they continue to build towards the tournament.