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- Sweden are a traditional power making a 14th appearance, having reached the quarter-finals in 2018. Under English manager Graham Potter, they push a potent attack to the fore in pursuit of a deep run after some time away.
- Tunisia reach their eighth World Cup, having exited the group stage in 2022. Led by Sabri Lamouchi, they lean on organised defending as an African side ready for a tight contest from the opening match.
- Sweden's biggest draw is a fearsome strike pair. Viktor Gyökeres (28), who scored prolifically at Sporting, lines up alongside Liverpool's No.9 Alexander Isak (26). Fielding two of Europe's elite strikers together carries some of the tournament's most dangerous firepower.
- Sweden's back line is marshalled by captain Victor Lindelöf (31). The experienced centre-back, long a regular at Manchester United, lines up with strong defenders such as Isak Hien to counter Tunisia's attack.
- Tunisia's attack flows through former Manchester United man Hannibal Mejbri (23). A difference-maker with his creativity and dribbling, his ability to drive forward is the lifeblood of the counter against Sweden's powerful front two.
- Tunisia's midfield pillar is captain Ellyes Skhiri (31). With his work rate and ball-winning he holds the centre, and together with Rani Khedira (32) he aims to cut the supply line to Sweden's two strikers.
- Sweden start 36-year-old goalkeeper Kristoffer Nordfeldt, adding experience at the back. Balancing attacking firepower with defensive stability is the first real test for a side aiming to get out of the group.